[Jan 1, 1841 Page 1]

Ioway Mission January 1st 1841

This is the first time in my journal which I have written 41 And perhaps before that date shall [scace] my fingers may be stiffend by the chill wind of death. One thing is clear I am a year [nearer] my [XXXXX] than when I commenced to write 1840? How solemn should I feel on this occassion. The year past I have been wonderfully favoured with health and favours. And I ought to have made great advances towards the kingdom of Glory. But I have but two much reason to fear that little or no needful [preparation] has Been found But upon this, the new years address which is prefixed to this volum will now fully express my fear and resolutions - To see how the issue of my life will meet what what I now expect should

[Jan 2, 1841 Page 2]

I be spared through this year I have thought good to write my prospects. I am now siting in the west room of my house [where] I hope if spared to be on next new years day. I hope to be emploid all the year in study and teaching without interruption. But what a year may bring forth the Lord only knows This day was spent in study writing and [XXXXX] meeting at W. [Hamilton]. I wrote a letter this evening to W. [Hannen] - Morning beautiful, cool & clear at 10 cloudy and a little snow. Wind arose very high [XXXXX] clear and about four wind subsided. Fine evening about 7 wind arose. Clear, not severely for this time of year.

Saturday 2nd.

Assisted W. Hamilton in [sealing] his kitchen or Cuchenes room fine clear cold day.

[Jan. 3, 1841 Page 3]

Sabath 3rd

Meeting & monthly consort at W. Hamilton. W. H. made a number of appropriate remarks on the ocasion, and I felt greatly my unworthiness. Day clear but could

Mondy 4th.

Studied and wrote out a plan for our Boarding School to send to the Board of missions. In the afternoon I was wonderfully afflicted by finding out that our little Indian girl had told a false hood. I donot know when a thing struck me so deeply. I talked to her and she [storied] [strong] [signs] of penatences. I [strove] to take the case to the throne of God Oh that the Lord would work in to for his own gloy in her salvation. Day could beautfuly clear.

[Jan 5, 1841 Page 4]

Tusday 5

Oh! But I am a poor miserable drowsy mortal. Disposed to sleep while my immortal interests are all at stake. I am wonderful [XXXXX] I fear am not learning. This evening I was condemned in reading a sermon which I had written some years ago. I Believe that it is as good as I can write now and my journal some time ago shows more of a spirit of devotion than at present. Although my oppertunitis for improvement and groth in spiritual things are shurely much better than formerly. If I am becomeing more sensible of my situation I would take courage and thank god to deepen it

[Jan 6, 1841 Page 5]

and make me [grow] on to perfection. Spent the day in hauling wood and working for W. Hamilton. In the evening I wrote some

Day, more moderate but heavy clouds and looks like rain or snow.

Wedensday 6

Spent the day in writing and study My mind was strongly inclined to Expt. 4 5 & 7 I spent nearly all the day in reading writing and thinking on this subject. I fear that I am careful for two much. My thoughts are two much consearned about worldly things for me to grow in grace. and knowledge and christian experience & love. In the evening we meet at W. Hamiltons for prayer. I think I was edified by a consideration of the subject of the day

-Cool dry & clear

[Jan 7, 1841 Page 5a]

Thusday 7th.

Today W. Hamilton and I went to hold a council with the Sacks in relation to W. [Beaclly] going among them as teacher, but they utterly refused having anything to do with white men [by way] of receving [for] them instruction [They] new how to worship and talk to God themselves and did not wish to know anything more. What a pity to [see] more them [XXXXX] souls refuse to come to the light. Day clear and dry could last night much frost fell.

Tuday 8th Spent the day in hauling wood and preparing lettres to send to the office. I am another day [nearer] the grave and I another day [nearer] heaven. am I growing in grace and [knowledg] and soundness of mind. I hope I see more of my weakness

[Jan 9, 1841 Page 6]

and insufficiency. [may] I see men and [XXXXX]' untill I feal all my insufficeing in God But it has struck 10 I must [return] my [XXXXX] Lord shield me through the defenceless hours of my sleep. - Cloudy and cool all day. Morning white frost.

Saturday 9th.

Spent all the day in preparing communications to send to the Post Office particularly one of a number of sheets to the Board of Missions. It is expected that we [have an opportuny of sending] to the office next week. Day could

Sabath 10th.

Today meeting at W. Hamiltons a sermon was in four papers selection of great importance. In the evening I have not for a long time had so much composure of mind, I think I could look upon the world with something like its due value [XXXXX] [XXXXX] to look at the narrow limits of its [XXXXX] and find great comfort in

[Jan 11, 1841 Page 8]

trusting in God He is all sufficient and all important. Oh, that this disposition & feeling of mind may increase for under it I feal more than earth can give and when given Earth cannot take away - Day fine some cloudy but dry and not severely cold

Mondy 11

Was obliged to work for W Hamilton he found a man to go to Liberty and I was really to work in his place the day was comp[XXX] in working at a bench of some respecta[XXXX] to set in his house

Tuseby 12

One half of the day I spent in making & finishing Mr Hamiltons bench which I commenced yesterday. In the afternoon I hung up my Beef to dry fine day

Wedensday 13th.

Went to visit the Indians particularly the first Chef and from him

[Jan 11, 1841 Page 9]

I found a warm Reception. I was well treated to a cup of tea and some wheat Bread baked in english stile when I was about starting home one of the principle chiefs come from the Ohio side of the Rise and he brought one Bottle of whisky. It is a wonderful pitty to see these poor Indians so inclined to drink this vile pollution to their own distruction. Meeting at Mr Hamiltons in the evening I had some freedom. In [prayer] and the devil tempted me about it. On yesterday we were told that one of the men who was killd by the whites had been dug up and eaten by wolves. The poor Indians was so alarmed and anxious to be off that they would share the same fate that they did not take time to bury them as they ought.

Day moderate but cloudy

[Jan 14, 1841 Page 10]

Thursday 14 Half of the day I sat and studied, and afternoon I aided Mr. Hamilton in lineing his house In the evening Mr. Ballard came to see us from the Platt country. The day was moderate and cloudy.

Friday 15.

Went with Mr. Ballard to see the Indians. Found them all [solem] and we ware made very welcome. In the evening Mr. [XXXXX] arived from Liberty and brought a quantity of letters & offers &c. which was gladly Recd. We ware not a little thankful to here that our friends ware well and my parents have it in contemplation to visit us. The day was cool some snow fell all day & night severly could.

[Jan 16, 1841 Page 11]

Saturday 16

Red news and fixed a pair of Buckskin [Pants] - The day is so severly could that it is almost impossible to be out of the house and even when in the fire seems to have lost its power

Sunday 17th

Meeting at Mr. Hamiltons He preached from these words `` prepare to meet your God.'' The day was moste severely could. At our morning meeting we ware very uncomfortable.

Monday 18th

Hauld some wood and made some at a pair of BuckSkin Pantelloons Spent some time in reading the Oberlin Evangelist. and conversing with Mr. Hamilton some on the contents of it. Day more moderate, and wind south.

[Jan 19, 1841 Page 12]

Tusday 19th.

Engaged moste part of the day in making Brooms, and the ressidue red and studied. I have much thinking and writing to do but it seems to go but slowly. Day pleasant. Appears like snow.

Wedensday 20

Spent the day in hard study so much that I feal at the present very unfit to write. I have been reading and trying to study the bible of the [Lord] It is a wonderful treasure the more we look into it the more we see Day cloudy & moderater

Thursday 21st.

Spent the day in study and reading. The subject of Christs exaltation emploid my time ``Wherefore God hath highly exalted him and given

[Jan 22, 1841 Page 13]

him a name that is above every name'' that At the name of Jesus every [XXXXX] should learn and every tongue confess.''

The exaltation of Christ seems to be manifast in the Scriptures particularly in his resurrection ascension ascession and comeing the second time to judgment But Oh how feble is our imaginations and conceptions on this subject. But I would hope for a time when I shall know these things on greater perfection But Oh how sinful how low. Low earthly. Day moste Beautiful clear & moderate.

Friday 22

Continued studying on the same subject and in the evening was favoured with the company of Mr. Hamilton a while. Day moste fine The contrast between the weather here & that of Pa. is wonderful The beauty and moderation of these days pass discription

[Jan 23, 1841 Page 14]

Saturday

23rd

Spent part of the day in study made some homony and spent some hours very agreeably in company with Mr. Hamilton. In the morning I had the misfortune to bruise very badly one of my fingers which was very [panful] through the day. In the evening I was taken with daeroha and was quite ill It is good for me thus to feel I am sought thus to see my mortality I am poor and tottering on the brink of the grave, and soon must fall. Another week is pased and I am comeing

[nearder] and [nearder] to my desolution for which God grant that I may [leave] prepared.

Sabath 24

At 2 oclock we meet at Mr. Hamiltons for meeting. It was

[Jan 25, 1841 Page 15]

my lot to read a Sermon and make some Remarks I red on of Burdens on Wholiness with which no man Shall see the [XXXXX]. I was trying to find out wheather I was now better prepared for pointing [XXXXX] men the way to heaven than I was 3 years ago I [fear] that I am not. Hence I have not traveled much in the way of Wholines I could give directions to those who wished In the same ways. Whose poor and miserable I am I pray for a reviving from the [Lord] Beautiful day

Monday 25th.

Spent the day mainly in reading and study. In the evening took some potatoes out of the hole and was sorry to find them not a little frosen After night we meet at Mr. Hamiltons to prey for

[Jan 26, 1841 Page 16]

the oppresed each of us made some remarks on the occasion and by trying to view a little then condition, and immagineing our selves to be in the condition I hope we ware enable to feal in some good degree for their condition. We should feal for them as though we was found with them. Poor slaves when shall they be liberated and when shall we be more fully free from the Bondage of Sin and death. fine

Tusday 26

A.M. Drew and hung up my meat to smoke and P.M. assisted Mr. Hamilton in [XXXXX] at his house. Spent much of our time in interesting conversation. Day moste fine clear & warm. The like I never saw. It seems as though April was here.

[Jan 27, 1841 Page 17]

Wedensday 27th.

Assisted Mr. Hamilton in lineing one of his rooms, and in the evening meet at his house for prayer. I was much asshamed, and uncomefortable on account of some joking in which I had thoughtlessly engaged during the day with Mr. Hamilton. Jesting though it may seem to be innocent at the time yet is not convenient and has a deadening affect upon the soul Day Beautiful warm & clear

Thursday 28th.

Got out some Stuff for a bed sted and spent some time with Mr. H. in looking for the line between the Ioway and Sack Indians. Pulld two teath fer Mrs. Irvin which paind her moste severely and was not a little trying to me Day admirable warm clear & dry like what we would expect in may.

[Jan 29, 1841 Page 18]

Friday 29th

Half of the day I assisted Mr. Hamilton at his house, and afternoon aided about the house Mrs. Irvin being sick and unable to do anything, and [nong] is unable to do all herself. We have been wonderfully blesed with health, and I wouldnot utter a murmur. I myself deserve affliction and of late I am fearing that the Lord has forsaken me for I know that I deserve many chastisements But the Lord is indulgent Day mostely fine

Saturday 30th

Hauled some wood and made a wash Board. Another week is gone and what have I done? but little something is recorded in the annals of [heaven.] Is it to my

[Jan 31, 1841 Page 19]

favour or the reverse? The latter I fear. But Christ is my only hope O' that I may find in the end the Pardoning mercy of God Day moste fine

Sabbath 31st.

As soon as I had returned from morning prayer meeting I was informed that a young Indian had been in, and that he had brought word that a war party had crosed the river and killed one white man. The party was headed by Whitecloud the principle Chief. and the conduct of the party was represented as being verry barbarous indeed We was at something of a loss to decide of the truth of the statement. as Indians are not at all times to be relied upon. It was said that the Indians dragged the man from his head. and murdered him by shooting and tomahawk while the poor woman and

[Feb 1, 1841 Page 20]

and children screamed in all directions. In the evening Jeffrey and Capt Jackson (the Agent) came in, and the reports was somewhat contredicted. A man, had been shot two nights previous but it was hoped that he would recover, and it was not determined wheather it was done by white or red man. But we are led strongly to suspect from statements of the Indians that it was Indians of our nation and headed by our chief. We had at our room a comefortable meeting We all seem to feal our shortcomeings and I hope that the Lord is about to review his work in our hearth Day warm and fine.

Monday February 1st.

Mrs. Irvin being rather feble I assisted some in washing. Studied some and arranged a discoarse which I have thought some of extemporising upon before

[Feb 2, 1841 Page 21]

our little society on next wedensday evening, on this matter I have some fears and doubts. I know not what is best, and right I think if I knew the path of duty I would go in it. Day fine warm & clear

Tusday 2

I am poor and hell deserveing I hope I have seen more than ordinary of my vileness. & I hope it has had a good influence upon my mind. towards my humiliation. Assisted some in washing and in P.M. Mr. Bradly and I went out and measured off some ground designed for a pasture for myself. Day fine but cool.

Wedensday 3rd.

Aided some in preparing to build my pasture fences In the evening we meet at our

[Feb 6, 1841 Page 22]

house we took some liberty in speaking on our experience and on the subject of religion and I hope we ware mutually aided. We are beginning to meet with opposition and persecution and I think it is a good symptom and from it would be much encouraged If indeed it be fer [XXXXX] sake Day fine clear but could.

Saturday 6th

For the three last days past I have been so busily engaged in making a Buckskin coat that I have not been able to [XXXXX] and read but little. Today I finished a fine coat of skin which I hope will be of much devise to me some may think it humiliating thus to be clad, but. It is not more hum-

[Feb 6, 1841 Page 23]

ble than that of John. Perhaps the texture of Buckskin is not more course that than of Camels hare Be that as it may I know it is much better than I deserve. I am poor and vile I am not a little troubled with temptation when will the tempter abandon his temptations to my foolish heart resist his suggestions? Another week has ran its time and what has it done for me. I have a new coat. But will this cost me [XXXXX] the great day and in death. no! no! I think I am geting to see more and more of the values of the [Soul] and a corresponding desire to have it safe in Christ. On Thursday morning a Snow fell to the depths of about 3 inches and it turn could which has continued [XXXXX] last night was the Eclipse

[Feb 7, 1841 Page 24]

Sabath 7th.

Meet. fer religious servise in Mr. Hamiltons room. and our attention was mostely directed to the subject of the heathen, as it was monthly consent. Today word come that an Indian had been killed in a drunken revel in last night. Several witnesses came through the day and the truth of the report was confirmed. The poor Indians are falling one after another at an alarming rate and without soon arrest, they must soon be exterminated. Nothing can arrest the fall but Divine grace alone. Day clear and cool.

Monday 8th. Our little Boy was ill and I was compeled to [nurce] while washing was done. In the evening I made a kettle of homeny. Much temptation and wandering of mind far from God and miserably wicked [feeling]

[Feb 9, 1841 Page 25]

not any better Oh I am poor and blind and deserveing of hell Day cloudy & could

Tusdy 9

Went to visit the Indians at their encampment. But having no interpreter I could only visit and talk as I could was made quite welcome and fared well Day could cloudy & some snow fell

Wedensday 10th.

Spent mostee of the time in reading and reviewing some composition In the evening We meet at Mr. Hamiltons for meeting. A number of french who have become connected with the Indians and who are now in our region came to the meeting and gave good attention and it is hoped that some consearn is felt for their souls. They have some

[Feb 11, 1841 Page 26]

in understanding fully our language yet some have such a knowledge of it as to understand considerable and can communicate to the others. For my own part I felt wonderful, unworthy of any favour at the home of God but when I feal weak and small I feal best. Day clear and very could

Thusday 11th.

Visited the Indians and found a large portion of them engaged in a sacred dance. found some ill, and several very [XXXXX] with sore eyes. One man is nearly blind and a child totally so. This I could not but look on as emblamatacle of their spiritual blindness. Was informed that two lodges of perhaps 4 or 5 each of the upper Ioway vilage had been killed by the Sioux. An express come to have me write a not to

[Feb 12, 1841 Page 27]

the Agent informing him of the fact.

Day clear but very could nights also severely could.

Friday 12th.

Choped and hauled some wood and red some In Dwight Day more moderate and some cloudy

Saturday 13

I am ashamed to begin to write. It is now Saturday night. Another week is pased away and what have I now honestly to inscribe in my journal? nothing that speaks well for my experiences or knowledge of my own heart. I can only acknowledge my sins and shortcomeings and hope in the mercy of Christ. I today haul and cut some wood and red some I am miserable poor blind & naked cool & high west wing cloudy.

[Feb 14, 1841 Page 28]

Sabath 14th,

Meet at our usual time and place for meeting and Mr. Bradly has his son Baptised. Mr. Hamiltons remarks ware founded mainly on that subject, and ware quite appropriate. A number of french who are now near to us came in and gave good attention. Some of them seem to have some conscience for the souls and we hope may yet be heirs of Jesus Christ. they are greatly under Catholick influence mostee of them having be raised in this belief and usually those brought up in this belief receive the doctrin, But these all seem to discard the thought

[Feb 15, 1841 Page 29]

of the priest having any power to forgive sins. Day could but pleasant and mosteely clear

Monday 15.

Today I commenced to get out stuff to fill two of the wheels of our wagon which are nearly falling down. [Hold] very searious thoughts about my situation and manner of life and progress in divine things I cannot come to any conclusion which is very favourable for poor me I am very Bad indeed

Change in the weather day quite pleasant wind from the south.

Tusday 16th

Continued working at the wagon all day hard. In the evening Mr. Gillman from the Platt country came to visit us and we [XXXXX]

[Feb 17, 1841 Page 30]

not a little gratified, -- Day verry fine warm and wind from the south

Wedensday 17th.

Today finished my job of wagon makeing and in the evening we put the two on with Mr. Gillmans assistence In the evening met at Mr Hamiltons for meeting Day moste Beautiful and fine though the morning was cool.

Thursday 18th.

Waited on Mr. Gillman in the morning and afternoon went to the Ioway encampement to see the Indians and particularly a young man who appears to be low with consumption or something bearing the same marks. I gave him some medacine [XXXXX] three others and gave some [eyes] medicine. They are wonderfully

[Feb 19, 1841 Page 31]

afflicted with sore eyes. It seems to be a sort of distemper prevalent among them. Some eyes have been lost entirely, and many others appear to be nearly exhausted verry fine day

Friday 19th.

Morning spent in arranging some fence building or a man in hauling rails. Mr. Bradly & Mr. Hamilton & I spent nearly one half of the day in conversation about the state of the mission and our own spiritual consearns. We took the liberty of frankly telling each other what we suppose ware our moste prominent faults This was done in a verry tender and affectionate manner :& I hope produced some good Day exceedingly warm & pleasant.

[Feb 20, 1841 Page 32]

Saturday 20

Emploid mostely in takeing care of some ashes, and assisting Mr. Bradly to fall a large stack of timber. I have had many thoughts about the state of the mission and our mode of operation among the Indians, and am strongly enclined to think that some chang muste be made before we do much for the Indians. I have been strongly induced to think that I ought to apply for licence to preach the gosple But my unworthy ness and Ignerence is so great that I do not know not to say or do I am [presed] with doubts and fears and dullness, and on all this time is passing away with great rapidity. Another Saturdy night is come Day moste beautiful and warm Heard [XXXXX]

[Feb 21, 1841 Page 33]

Sabath 21st Feb.

According to prevous arrangement, It fell to me to make some remarks at our meeting, which I did from these words of the prophet [XXXXX] ``[XXXXX] thy that feared the Lord spoke after one to another'' &c. I was much embaresd from fear that I should do or say something which would be out of my proper place as I have no licence to preach, and thare is danger of such persons going two for in such an undertakeing. I strove first to show the particular sort of fear spoken of by the profit, and then that those who was influenced by [XXXXX] fear would speak one to another.

[Feb 21, 1841 Page 34]

I think I drew some encouragement from what I said and hope it was not lost entirely to all who ware present. Mr. Hamilton also made some apt remarks in regard to the parity of heart necessary to make conversation acceptable to be recorded before God.

In the forenoon Mr. H. & I [XXXXX] [XXXXX] went to see some Indians at the vilage who ware sick and gave some medicine we talked some with, and prayed for the sick, as this was all that we could do. The healthy of the nation all being engaged in or attracted by a [greath] bear dancer which was being celebrated in the vilage Day Beautiful warm & clear

[Feb 22, 1841 Page 35]

Monday 22nd.

Returned to the vilage again to see the sick took some medacine Found some drunk, and a great thirst prevailing among them generally for liquor. They seem to be growing worse and worse. I cannot conjecture wherein it will end. Day wonderful fine and warm, went to the vilage without a coat and such on the way

Tusday 23rd.

Worked moste of the day at a Bed stead which I commenced a considerable time ago. Spent some of the day in pleasant conversation with Mr. Hamilton, in which we enter with great freedom. About daylight this morning [caramarrya]

[Feb 24, 1841 Page 36]

an old friendly Indian come and brought us the news that the Otoes had lately an outfall, and fight in which 8 was killd and two deadly wounded. The whole Indians on the [frontier] seem to be going downward Day more cool & high wind from north.

Wedensday 24th.

Went to the vilage in company with two young men one of whom come to have me go and se his wife who was sick. I [XXXXX] her and two others and visited a number of sick. Found some of them mending though some are yet quite Iill. On my way home I was taken with a severe pain in the head and was very unfit for anything all evening. yet I had as

[Feb 25, 1841 Page 37]

much or more real comefort in meeting as is usual for me. I felt my weakness and the necessity of relying on God for all needed aid temperal & Spiritual

Day fine thawed some & cloudy.

Thusday 25th.

Wrought nearly all day at a beadstead, split some Boards for Mr. Hamilton. Last night old Pumpkin came in and staid all night this morning we had a long and satisfactory talk and he went off in a good humour which is rather uncommon

Day cloudy and moderate and appears like rain

Friday 26th.

Completed my bed sted after so long a time and was not a little rejoiced at the fact. for it has been

[Feb 27, 1841 Page 38]

tedious and difficult. We here labour wonderfully under disadvantage of saw mill or anything of the sort having to rake all our wood from the rough timber with Broad axe and &c. But in answer to this it is not necessary according to the fassion of our county that [XXXXX] be verry fine. All that we have is much better than we deserve. The Lord is wonderful in his kindness. healthe and comfort seems to be ours.

Day some little snow and dandy all day appears like rain

Saturday 27th.

Emploid with Mr Rubeke. in making a Spout for the eve of my house with a view mainly to secure rain water for washing as the water of our spring is of a

[Feb 28, 1841 Page 39]

character not well suited for this purpose It is wonderful how the weeks are passing by I am becoming alarmed. Soon the short days of my pilgrimage will be wound up. and is thare a reasonable prospect that my work for the other world will be done. I fear that the week which is just past has done but little for my preparation in this respect. Be this as it may some record of it is in Heaven, and it is according to truths Or the real state of the case. May this reflection quicken me in the discharge of my Duties. Day moste beauiful clear and warm

Sabath 28

Went to the Indian encampment to see the sick and minister as far as I could to their necessities Found some of them mending, but all who ware able had gone to White Cloud. The chefs had bought some goods from

[Mar 1, 1841 Page 40]

a trader and ware about to make a present of them to a number of Otoes who have been down some time on a visit. No regard is paid to the Sabath day. even by those who know much better. In the evening meet at Mr. Bradlys

Mr . B. made some remarks and we ware favoured with the company and prayers of Dr Davis who came to make us a visit. Day fine but cloudy

Monday March 1st.

Waited a while on Dr Davis and moste of the day spen in labour at a fenceing which I am about [having] built to enclose some pasture. In the evening I had more than a common view of my [faultz] and my attachment to the world, and saw that the one can be strengthened only

[Mar 2, 1841 Page 41]

by the power of the gosple and the other overcome by [XXXXX.] I pray God that these thoughts may be encreased for from them I do derive much benefit. I cannot write [Tel.] of 1841 any more solem thought. Day fine morn rains from S. P.M. from N.

Tusday 2nd.

Emploid all day in laying the first rail of my pasture fence laid one hundred roods and am quite tired. I am affrade that I am giving two much attention to my secular consearns, and not anough to my spiritual at al events thare is more danger of neglecting the one than the other Day fine morning cool Day clear Beautiful.

[Mar 3, 1841 Page 42]

Wedenesday 3rd.

A.M. hauld some stuff for my fense put up a trough at the eve of my porch &c. P.M. Went to the vilage to see the sick found some better and others taken sick, and some ware deserveing thus as a verry wholly day. One man who was quite sick and thought that he ought to be [lited] refused to have this done. [XXXXX] sundown or tomorrow stateing that it was sabath with [them] and he could not have it done now.

I went to see the principle chef who was quite sick and whos eyes ware verry sore. He has been drunk for a long time and will loose his eyes soon if he does not referome. This afternoon a light shower of rain fell. and Distant thunder was heard. The first rain fer near four months

[Mar 4, 1841 Page 43]

Thursday 4th.

Wrought until noon at my fense and afternoon, spent in the house in writing. wrote a letter to Rev. Messrs [Simpson] & [Bushnel] on the subject of duty I have done this with much [beseting] and I hope that is fer the best. I want to be [XXXXX] useful my conscience will not let me [yet.] I must not be satisfied with what I have already attained or have done I must go on to greater attainments and duties and works. Day was dark & cloudy, and very high wind from the N. E.

Friday 5

Finished laying the [werm] or first rail of my fense. I have just completed the foundation of a fense 167 rods long encloseing mostely praire Morn. Light rain frose as it fell Cloudy & cool & [XXXXX] & clouds from east.

[Mar 6, 1841 Page 44]

Saturday 6

Spent the day in study & writing lettris. Two Caws, a part of 80 who came to visit the Ioways came to the station, one a fine looking young man who talks good english He told us of a great victory they had a short time ago over the pawnees. He had taken six scalps. They who was killd ware all woman and children, the men ware absent after the Buffalo He told of cuting off the childrens noses and throwing them into the water cuting their faces so that they would die more intolerable than death itself He spoke of these dreadful cruelties with great compasion or rather plasure The other day Rubeadeau, a french trader told of Sarper another french trader with whom he was in

[Mar 7, 1841 Page 45]

company, that in a fight with the indians he saw Sarper run up on a wounded Indian take his knife rip him open when alive, tear out his heart, and [XXite] it with [fury] while it was yet beating and smokeing with life. Morning some snow fell day moderate but dark and cloudy wind from E.

Sabath 7th.

Mr. Hamilton and a young man (Battus Roy) who has come to interpret some, went to the vilages and did not return until late. We had meeting in Mr. Hamiltons house I feal wonderfully condemned that I have not something to say that is more favourable on my own part of the exercises of this day. It seems that I am

[Mar 8, 1841 Page 46]

growing more & more could. & I fear it will grow more & more so until I perish in my [regin] [destouse] from my God. Lord pity me, look on me, in me.

Day Morning snow two inches deep partly clear but cool & wind so high from W. that cut little [XXXXX] was done

Monday 8.

Commenced to split some clapboards for Mr. [Rulite] & in the evening houpe and fixed a half Barrel fer a wash tub. Day dark and heavy looks much like snow.

Tusday 9th.

Spent the day in study & conversation with Mr. Hamilton In the evening I was taken with a severe

[Mar 10, 1841 Page 47]

pain in my head which prevented me after night from pursueing my studies The Lord knows what is best, and I will submit without a murmur. Day [singular] Snow commenced to fall sometime in last night and continued to fall all the day without a single recess. In the evening the snow was several inches deep and being verry wet it was so lit day warm and wind from N. E.

Wedensday 10.

Studied and went to the vilage with Mr. Hamilton On last night an Indian died in the encampment. Another has gone their long home and we have reason to fear without hope solem thought Day fine sunshine from 11 oclock wind from South

[Mar 11, 1841 Page 48]

Thursday 11

Spent all the day in relaying and cleansing my loft, being comprised of Clapboards, much dirt had accumulated, and the job was far from being a desireable one. Mrs. Irvin spent moste of the day at Mr. Hamiltons and in the evening we suped there Day perfectly clear, and Thawed in the sun shine.

Friday 12th.

Split some Clapboards for Mr. Rubeti and in the evening Jeffrey came to our house and I spent moste of the evening with him. Day clear but cool.

Saturday 13

Continued to split Boards and in the evening prepared some husks for a bed. Day clear & more warm than some past. Wind from [W.]

[Mar 14, 1841 Page 49]

Sabath March 14

We all started to the vilage this morning to have a meeting among the Indians. Jeffrey had promised to be present to interpret. When we got to the encampment we found them all engaged in a great feast and a clamer, in behalf of a great war party which is in contemplation to be in the spring, in company with a number of other nations against the soux. After this was over we got a number collected at Waehomouyas. for religious servise, we each spoke to the company and dismissed without anything interresting. In the evening meet at our house for prayer. Mr. [Ducham] an old catholick priest man showed great signes of penatence, wept nearly all the time of meeting, and was in deep consearn but was unwillg to talk on the subject.

[Mar 15, 1841 Page 50]

In the evening I was quite unwell. Lay in bed moste of the time and took some medacin later at night. Day fine cool wind north.

Mondy 15.

Ill from the effects of medicin last night. Talked some with Mr. Ducham who was consearned on yesterday and today was hauling rails for me. He was some unwilling to talk It it was evident that he was under conviction. He saw much of his sinfulness and badness of heart as he expressed, and [XXXXX] the [policy] of the catholick preasts. I trust he will yet be seen in the redeemer. I spent moste of the day in my study. A. M. Clear P.M. cloudy wind north, and cool.

Tusdy 16

Split some Boards aided Mr. Hamilton in butchering and wrote lettres. I had two men assisting me [they] built fense at a fast rate

[Mar 17, 1841 Page 51]

put more than 150 rods in little over half the day. I must be more drawn from the world if I would be with Christ I think I am. I feal more the shortness and [frailty] of my days. though tody I felt well [in tirely] Day moste fine & clear

Wedensday 17th.

Spent moste of the time in reading & study, and finished splitting Boards for Mr. Rubeki 840 in all In the evening meeting at our room considerable interest and feeling I trust the Spirit of the Lord is dealing very [XXXXX] with us and warning us of our danger and admonishing us to flee from the wrath which is to come. Morning clear soon clouded up and from 9 to 11 a shower of could rain P.M. clear wind high from the south often ran [XXXXX] warm

[Mar 18, 1841 Page 52]

Thursday 18th.

Emploid all day in working at a wagon bed I am preparing to start to Liberty. which I will do the Lord willing soon in next week. In the evening Mr Rubeki came from Liberty with some letters & papers but no news of importance. Day exceedingly windy threw down some fence to the ground removeing the blocks on which it stood.

Friday 19

Continued working at the wagon Bed and nearly completed the job.

Day cloud. But warm

Saturday 20th.

Soon in the day sarted to the vilage. but found many of the

[Mar 18, 1841 Page 53]

Indians verry drunk. It was reported that all the Chefs ware drunk. It may be so All that I saw ware, and many more ware. The Caws are seen now tradeing for Corn, and the [XXXXX] articles of trade is whisky. it is ready sale. In the afternoon I hauled some wood preparing to go to Liberty. Settle up with Mr. [Rubeki] owe him near 10 dollars. This evening at worship we conducted reading the bible in course, and had some intenesly reflections on the occasion. Had a pleasant walk at dark, and solemn thoughts on the subject of death and futurity. May God enable me to number my days so that I my apply my heart unto wisdom Day quite warm some signs of vegetation first

[Mar 21, 1841 Page 54]

Sabath 21st.

In a low state of mind intill after or at the close of meeting at Mr. Bradlys. I red in meeting a letter of Rev. [Fetch] describing as much as possible the Love of Christ which indeed paseth all knowledge I beleve that I have indeed be narrow views of Christ. I have not any adequate senese of this great subject. I must now and feal more of its power and reality. Rain commenced about one oclock last night. and continued near all day

Monday 22

Spent the day in preparing to start to Liberty in the morning. but I am now so unwell that I fear I will not be able to start. It may be that is the last [entrance] I will ever

[Mar 23, 1841 Page 55]

make in my diary. I am fast on my journey home, and the last line in this will be soon inscribed. But Oh that my worthless name may be writen in Heaven. that I may be more filled with the love of Christ [XXXXX] I thought of yesterday Cleared up & pleasant.

Tusday 23rd

According to expectation I started to liberty soon this morning in company with Mr. Ducham (a hired hand) and am now seated writing in my wagon more than 30 miles from home

Through all the day I have been quite ill about noon I was so bad as to be strongly disposed to turn back Pain in my head and stomack & bowels disordered. But the Lord is wonderful kind and I am as wonderfully insensible I think I never saw myself as dull and if it can be said actually dead.

[Mar 23, 1841 Page 56]

I have done nothing all my life. I have spent some time this evening in reading in the life of [Payson] this evening. He speaks of himself as being bad. but how much worse I. I know not what to say. I have been neglecting everything. I hope my sickness will be a blessing to me I have resolved to day I hope in the strength of the Lord that If I am [spared] to reach my home again I will [profess] the observation of a day of fasting & prayer in the family. Lord help me. [And on the way as for as I may be enabled to [prosecute] my journey I will try live as much as I can as be comes the profession I sustain. Many if not all my Christian duties have been sorely neglected. Yet all things has been clear on the part of God. The present is a token of his temporal kindness

[Mar 24, 1841 Page 57]

while thunder is rolling not far off and no doubt heavy rain falling near us. we are dry and commodious, and I can write and read without inconvenience except from my oposition. [Did]

the rain which appears to be falling not far off extend to us it is hard to imagine how uncomefortable it would make us. and more than this I feal much more comefortable in health than I did some time ago. Day favourably warm, but draw to rain at a distance after night with thunder

Wedensday 24

Arose soon this morning and prossecuted on journey. I felt some better but sufferd much through the day, expected to be unable to accomplish my journey [but] I hope my trust was in the Lord.

[Mar 25, 1841 Page 58]

About noon we reached Levanworth where we crosed the Missouri with but little delay and made about ten mile crossing the Platt, and stoped with Mr Hause an acquaintence. Day pleasant

Thursday 25th.

This was a day not a little anxiety. I expected to meet my father and mother at Liberty whom I had not seen for a year, and who was to accompany me to the station and spend some time with us. I think that I was two anxious. I tried to resign it to the disposel of God but when I woul suppose that they ware not thare I could hardly endure the thought. I went on trembelling and hopeing

[Mar 26, 1841 Page 59]

fearing to enter the town lest I should be disappointed. But before I got fairly into the town I saw my father at considerable distance and knew him two well to be mistaken. I found also my aged mother and all well, we had an affectionate meeting [father] deeply [interested] spent the evening in enquirey about provisions goods &c. Day warm and fine roads good

Friday 26

Wonderful buisy day in buying good and prepareing to start on my way home wards tomorrow some rain very warm

Saturday 27th.

Had engaged a team which with my own loaded up

[Mar 28, 1841 Page 60]

as soon as we could and start on our way home ward, we made about 20 miles to my friend Mr. Hause where we stoped for the Sabath

this day we ware moste singularly favoured in [XXXXX] to rain great appearance of rain in the morning but kept off all day untill we got in the shelter when it commenced to rain with thunder and lighting very heavy

Sabath 28

was favoured with an opportunity of going to baptist meeting. the theme of discussion was a through grace are you saved through faith and that

[Mar 29, 1841 Page 61]

not of yourselves it is the gift of God.'' Spent moste of the remaining day in the woods alone. My mind was wonderfully divided and distracted about my [XXXXX] much more inclined to think of that than things of the Lord Miserable creature I am that after all Gods kindness I would so behave Day fine but warm

Monday 29

went to westin a small town on the Missouri to buy a load of flour &c. to take to the Station Showers of rain & snow and quite chilly

Tusday 30

Started as soon as we could. At Platt we ware detained in crossing and my

[Mar 31, 1841 Page 62]

patients was severely tried with my wagoners who ware much disposed to idle times About 5 oclock we reached Missouri at Levanworth, and got all the teams over by dark day cloudy but dry & favourable

Wedensday 31st.

As soon as it was convenient this morning we ware on our way to Ioway. We travelled verry slow but ware quite successful, having no misfortune, and often makeing about 20 miles we stoped for the night at a beautiful small creek and found a very choise place for camping. Day fine & night remarkably so fare & beautiful

[Apr 1, 1841 Page 63]

Thursday April 1st. 1841

Started soon on our journey and all things considered was quite prospered true we turned over once but with no material injury to any of the frate. After making about 18 miles we encamped for the night by the side of a beautiful rill which abundently supplied us with good water Day very fine though some appearence of Rain

Friday 2.

Last night we lay about fourteen miles from home and our prospects ware quite high for reaching home today. Elated with this expectation we started soon after sun rise and about one Oclock reach the long

[Apr 3, 1841 Page 64]

looked for and much desired home I fear that our desires ware not so burneing for our heavenly home as they have been for our temporal. I hope that I was thankful to find all things well, when I came near home my mind was filld with much frightful immaginations. Fancying that many things ware in a bad condition But the Lord has always outstriped my expectations. But I am yet unbelieving . and slow and dull to learn

Day pleasant beyond expectation

Saturday 3rd.

Spent all the day in [XXXXX] and arrangeing the goods which I had procured for our station while at Liberty. Day verry fine

[Apr 4, 1841 Page 65]

Sabath 4th.

Meeting in the morning at our usual place and in the afternoon at our dwelling. Today Mr. Hamilton and the rest of the males at the station except myself went to the vilage and had a small meeting among the Indians. We labour under many difficulties on account of an adaquate and faithful interpreter many of the Indians came to the station mostely with a view to get some provisions as they had understood that I had brought up a supply of provisions Day fine

Monday 5th.

Spent nearly all the day in [XXXXX] and puteing away the goods which I brought up from Liberty Last night some rain Day fine

[Apr 6, 1841 Page 66]

Tusday 6th.

Went with Father to the Indian fields to assist him in commenceing to plough for the Indians. He has engaged to farm for the Indians this year, an to give them instruction in this department of manual labour while it is my intention to try to give them mental information as far as I can. I ought to be very comefortable and happy now I have now my aged father and Mother with me, who are willing to do all do all that they can to make me comefortable and aid in all the affairs of the family. I think that I now will have much time for study and hope that I may be enabled to improve every opportunity

Morning cool and wind from South day warm and vegetabas comeing on

[Apr 7, 1841 Page 67]

Wedensday 7

Accompanied Father to the Ioway vilage and aided him some in puting in some wheat for White Cloud Stoped some time with some of the chiefs and found them I thought some of them more disposed than usual to work and farm for themselves. They are all anxious to have work done but are lazy about puteing two their own hands. Could they be induced to industry I would have strong hopes of their soon becoming a respectable people Day fine

Thursday 8

Was compld to stay at home contrary to my wish to assist in rolling some logs on our corn field. and after this plough some in the garden for early potatoes. I find my mind very lazy

[Apr 9, 1841 Page 68]

about study. In fact it seems that I can scarcely study at all. as soon as I get my mind as I think composed and fixed it is away far off the mark farther than when I first commenced to bring it to the mark I am poor, will & uncultivated. fit not for refined society in this world and oh how unfit for the society of Angels & heaven Day warm but appears like rain

Friday 9

After assisting to roll some logs I went to the vilage and to the Chefs houses. At the vilage I found some drunk among whom was one of the main chiefs of the nation. This is verry common. In fact the chefs are as great drunkards as any in the Nation. After spending some time in the nation I started to the Chefs where their farmer was ploughing was

[Apr 10, 1841 Page 69]

made verry uncomefortable on account of rain which prevented me from doing some things among the chefs which I had in view Father I started home through the rain got some wet but was sheltered by an Indian [cloake] which was given me by one of the Chefs for that purpose Day verry cool and moste part of the afternoon wet with some thunder and lightening.

Saturday 10

Started soon to the vilage and made my return as soon as possible, and spent moste of the evening consulting with Messrs Bradly and hamilton on busness of the mission Trouble with severe drowsiness, which led to a short sleep on the floor. Day could and damp cloudy & wind from East.

[Apr 11, 1841 Page 70]

Sabath 11.

Remained at home all day and attended meeting at Mr. Bradlys This day we had for some time set apart to be observed as a day of fasting prayer and thanksgiving in view of the many mercies enjoid and given particularly in preserveing and bringing our parents and in prospering me on my journey to Liberty. we had an extra meeting in our own family in which I red a discourse, on the exaltation of Christ,'' which I hope was not altogether [undefying] to us Day gloomy and could some snow fell in the morning and through the past night considerable rain fell.

Monday 12th.

Mr. Bradly and I started to the vilage with a view to encourage

[Apr 13, 1841 Page 71]

some of the Indians in engageing to labour to which some of them seem more than usually inclined. This is one of the moste favourable signs of the times which we now see After we reached thare we understood that a french man had landed at the River on his way to the Bluffs with provisions and wishd us to go and get some. we went but found he had gon past, and did not see him.

Tusday 13th.

About noon started to the Indians, but hearing that the big vilage was deeply engaged in a Buffalow dance I did not go to teach as was intended. Today rather an [odd] [secen] occurred among the Indians. on last night a white man come over the River under

[Apr 14, 1841 Page 72]



of wishing to borrow a horse to go to the Kickapoos, and to pay for this brought with him a gal. of whisky & a deer skin. This morning the suspisions of the first chief arose and he sent a number of men (Indians) and arrested and tied the man and brought him back to his house and he is now thare, under gard waiting the arival of the agent. It has been found sinse that this man has ben [XXXXX] in passing counterfeit money and of flying from justice. How right it is that he [XXXXX] in this tresh Day fine though high [N.] wind

Wedensday 14

After assisting to roll some logs I started to the vilage. I found moste all of the people old and [yong] gone

[Apr 14, 1841 Page 73]

to a great danse to the object of which was to put some spots as marks of honour or distinction in the forheds of some young girls. This is done by the old father of Ceromonus who does it by applying powder on the skin and then pricking it with needles until it penetrates the skin. Near the whole vilage and nation was assembled and most of the young woman and even small girls and children ware [painted] and took an active part in the danse. I could not but admire the courage of some little girls who would go forwards alone befor the whole assembly and danse before the musick undaunted a severe reproof to backward Christians who an [offacer] to go forward in the cause of Christ Ten has struck evening spent in writing and at Mr. Bradly at meeting Day fine warm & wind E

[Apr 15, 1841 Page 74]

Thursday 15

Went to the vilage to teach but was prevented by their drunkenness from doing anything at all. Day fine but warm and looks like for rain

Friday 16

Was prevented from going as soon as ordinary to the vilage on account of rain Went in the afternoon and found them all sober and was able to collect more than 20 schollars who gave good attention, and I was surprised to find that they have retained so much of what they learned last Spring They can sing and count as fluently as ever and seem to be well pleased with the notion of learning This morning I suffered myself to be led a stray by impatience

[Apr 17, 1841 Page 75]

and let my feeling handle me more than I ought, and a sense of my sin led me to fast and beg to pray that I might be [mortified] and humble which I hope was granted I am miserable blind and naked. My leisure moments have been spent his moment in writing a sermon from Peter ``Such as I have [given] I unto you'' It is about done and I think I am some the better of it Began to rain about 9 ½ and continue till after 12 fine growing shower with heavy thunder & lightening which struck once in a tree near Mr. Bradlys house, afternoon pleasant & warm.

Saturday 17th .

On last evening an Indian came to our station, and said that an Indian woman had died, and that it was the wish of the connections, of the diseased that we make a coffin and bury the body in

[Apr 17, 1841 Page 76]

english style. This morning we ware prevented from begining soon to make the coffin by heavy rain. About nine oclock an Indian come down to urge us to be in a hury to go and bury the person As soon as we could Mr Bradly Father two others & I took the wagon and some Boards with tools for makeing and diging the grave. We went to the house and found them waiting with great anxiety Mr B. and others went to dig the grave while I and Father made the coffin. As soon as it was maid we put the Body in and took it immediately to the grave which was ready. we buried it all in english fassion. though the old man wished a small hole left in the end of the coffin and had all her dress affairs entered with her In this case they have shown more enter reliance than usual submiting all to our management and

[Apr 17, 1841 Page 77]

seeming to be well pleased with all that was done. The poor old man wept sorely and gave full evidence of sincerity in his lamentations. Such occasion afforde favourable season for religious talks with the Indians but not being able to attain a suitable interpreter the occasion was pased without improvement. After all was over the day was so far spent that I did not attempt to teach but come home with the wagon and pased the evening in reading and meditation was much edified I think in reading one of [Burdens] sermons from these records ``be ye also ready.'' Morning moste wonderfully cloudy and dark so much so that a candle would have ben serviceable in the house rained until about 8 or 9 oclock and then gradually cleared off and afternoon clear & fine

[Apr 18, 1841 Page 78]

Sabath 18

This morning Mr. Bradly Father and I started to the Indians to try to holde a meeting among them Mr. Hamilton could not leave. We went doubting but in some respects we suceeded better than was expected. As soon as we landed we found the Agent & govermental interpreter thare. The agent seems to be verry frendly and though not a [proffeser] is willing to cooperate with us in all our undertakings he willingly let Jeffry the Interpreter go with us and was entirely willing to wait untill we had a meeting though his anxiety for going on was considerable. We had a meeting at [Wachamonjas] and thare ware present more than a dozen men beside the woman & Children. We talked to them and was pleased with the attention

[Apr 19, 1841 Page 79]

given it has I think been better attended and more regard to what has been said than is common. But not anything special seems to have occourred. We ware pained at seeing a number of the Ioways and Sacks starting on a war excursion against the Sioux we understand that they are to be meat by the potowatomes & Otoes Poor ignorant creatures they seem to know not what they do Day warm & favourable

Monday, 19

Went to the vilage but did not get more than 13 schollars The vilage seems to be emptied of all the [heathen] and a [XXXXX] men. Day fine

Tusday 20th

was not able to start to the vilage until near 4 oclock but

[Apr 19, 1841 Page 80]

favoured when I reached the spot. found 23 Schollars who behaved well and seem to learn quite well. When done teaching I started to the chiefs houses in company with an Otes Supersticious Omshaw we had not gone far when the appearence of rain was quite strong. I observed to him that we should be in haste, it would rain. He said No. after going a little further thunder broke immediately over our heads when I said it will rain and we must hury He said no. and after going a little further he set down and took out his tobacco pouch and after throwing some upwards to the great Spirit he muttered something low I could not understand. After this he went on and struck up a [loud] song or a sound more like the wailing than anything else He told me on inquiry that he was singin to the great Spirit, and there would be no rain which actually was the case at that time one shower but fine warm growing weather

[Apr 21, 1841 Page 81]

Wedensday 21st.

About 10 oclock word came that a portion of the war party which started out a few days ago had fallen in with some pawnees and that they had killed 9 and this morning had returned with all the tryumphs of victory bearing with them scalps ears hands feet &c. At the usual time I started to the vilage and found two much truth in the report. when I came insight of the sacks (which comes first to view) they ware busly engaged in dancing the scalp dance which was accompanied by the war whoop not a few. It was a time of recess in dancing when I went but they ware prepareing for it and soon began I saw the hand the scalps an ear and a heart cut and stretched on a stake and [XXXXX] for those who [XXXXX] to eat of. from all that I can learn I think the pawnees who they killd ware on there way to a frendly

[Apr 22, 1841 Page 82]

visit. But these bloodthirsty reches fell upon them and butchered all but six who made their escape. In the evening we came by the vilage when men & woman ware deeply engaged in dancing But they did present a moste wonderful appearence and made impressions on mind which will last as long as memory. It is wonderful the low condition into which the depraved human race will [run], and how wonderfully these creatures glory in their shame Day favourable

Thursdy 22nd

Went to teach but found the vilage nearly emptied. They had all went up to [Noncheningas] to the great Scalp dance which was to be celebrated there. I got seven schollars. who did well the rest being abcent Day warm & showry

[Apr 23, 1841 Page 83]

Friday 23 started at the usual time but when near to the vilage saw that many ware drunk, proceeded in teaching and did well for a time but as the second class ware reciteing all ware scatered I may say in an instent by a drunken Indian who come into the house some hid in one place and some another while some went out of the house Now can imagine the real appearence of things. I feal at times much discouraged. though in some respects I cannot say that I am much I think my mind is more loose from my secular conscious but am I doing mor good. I am reading and writing much but is my heart growing any better. I fear not or I am geting more of a view of it, which my god grant All day cloudy forenoon some rain evening more settled but cloudy

[Apr 24, 1841 Page 84]

Saturday 24.

Went to the vilage at the usual time and was crowded with schollars. I know whi it was but they crowded upon me beyond measure. I would think more than forty The day was wet & I suppose they could not so well play as usual. The wariors who for some days have been dancing over the scalps was prevented from proceeding on account of rain but the say that they will resume it tomorrow They are dreading some the consequences of what has been done but still they seem to tryumph greatly in it. I have had many serous thoughts about this [XXXXX] [mellncholly] event. & I fear that it all has been permited to reach and humble us and bring us to our right place. It our shortecomeings have been so great that it be necessary thus to sacrifise the lives of our fellow men we should tremble and be [offacle]. Be this

Apr 25, 1841 Page 85]

as it may it must have some intimate bearing on us. and we must pray that it be sancufied to us. I have just finised a discourse from peters example in healing the indigent man who was laid at the gaut of the temple to cast alms. I think I have recd good from it and so have some hope that it may be edifying to others. Very cloudy and dark day and much rain fell both before & after noon all of which was could.

Sabath 25

Meeting at our house. It was my lot according to appointment to make some remarks or take some forward part in the meeting. I had prepared a discourse on paper from these words ``Such as I have given [XXXXX].'' Acts. 3-6 Previous to this Mr. Hamilton and I

[Apr 26, 1841 Page 86]

Went with the interpreter to the vilage and succeeded in collecting a number of indian children with some grown persons to whom each of us spoke some. thare was one old woman paid strict attention More than is usual for them. But that it was any intrest she felt in the meeting I am not able to say. Forenoon verry wet. rain near half of the day

Monday 26th.

As soon as convenient I started on horseback with a view of going to the mill and teaching on my return I took with me one bushels of corn pased white clouds. and found Jeffry [Deruay] thare and at the mill found that the dam was broke and was disappointed in geting grinding done Come by the vilage and taught but a few schollars The

[Apr 27, 1841 Page 87]

large part of the village lay abcent as hunting some meet for a feast to conclude the big scalp dance Day could and some cloudy

Tusday 27th.

Started to the vilage in company with Jeffry and Mr. Bradly with a view to look out a sight for a mill on a creek on our way. when we went to W. Clouds we saw a company of Otoes about 70 in no. who had came to visit the Ioways Went to the Otes vilage and found them just closeing the great scalp danse. They had a long pole erected and the scalps & [o] suspended, and ware about finishing all off with some drinking of whisky. Day cloudy & some rain about 3 oclock P.M.

[Apr 28, 1841 Page 88]

Wedensday 28

Spent moste of the morning in makeing a Board for an Ioway woman on which to carry a young infant. This is the custom among them and it is I suppose the main cause of the peculiar shape which many of the heads have. Before I was quite done with this a Boy came with a note from the main chefs saying that his wife was verry ill and stood in need of medacle releaf, and requested me to go up immediately, which I did. I found the poor woman to be pitied in many respects she was suffering moste severely under the inflammatory Rumatism, scarcely fit to be moved even with the utmost care, and withall her husband and a number of Indians was drunk and make a moste miserable and distracting noise around her and through all the house. A large No. of Otoes had come down

[Apr 28, 1841 Page 89]

on yesterday and some of them with not a few sacks ware engaged in drinking. all of which made things moste unhappy for the poor woman. After doing what was in my power for her I went to the Ote vilage where I taught some, and found many both man & woman drunk One woman came in to the house when I taught and disturbed the school not a little After teaching I made a door for the house in which I taught at the request of the man who owned it. He said that the drunken Indians trouble him so much that he muste have a door that which render this amuseing is, that thare are but few in the Nation who get drunk more frequent than himself. In the evening comeing home I got some wet in a [smack] shower which continued at intervals until later After night meeting at our house. I for a long time have not felt so unworthy. I hardly knew what to try to say in prayer I was so wonderful

[Apr 29, 1841 Page 90]

unworthy and so justly exposed to the wrath of an angry God what shall I do. I am so far from my God and the fountain of all good. I am a writch [unclean] without thy spirit and thy grace I find that I come short in every respect oh what shall I do. I am so unworthy and justly exposed to the everlasting wrath of God All the day dark & cloudy but no rain fell untill about 12 or 1 oclock, and fell with intervals increasing until after five when we had a severe rain with some hail and rain is still continueing to fall it is about ten.

Thursday 29th.

Started to the vilage at the usual time and of teaching hung and fixed a temporary door to a Bark lodge or house in which I have been teaching. found but a few schollars at the usual place of teaching, and thought it best to go round the vilage and enter each

[Apr 29, 1841 Page 91]

of the houses and search out all that I could and have them say a lesson. This in some respects is a good plan, though it is not without its difficulties. After I reached home I was informed that white clouds wife was rather worse and it was her wish that I should go and see her. I accordingly started on foot, and with hard walking reached there a little before sunlit. I found her in extreme pain. with a severe attack of inflammatory rheumatism. I [bled] her copiously, and applied Blisters to the parts moste affected, and as soon as possible returned home which I did not reach until affer dark. an not a little tired. yet I think I felt some thankful for the opertunity of serveing the poor suffering woman This morning was verry could with high wind from the N. W. and the ground was covered with sleet and snow and froze. things had the appearance of winter [Misowagerate] the Sack Chifs and his party have just returned from a visit to the Mississippi having 70 horses

[Apr 30, 1841 Page 92]

Friday 30th.

Went to the vilage to teach and found more than 20 schollars, who did well after teaching I went to see the Chefs wife whom I had visited last night. found her some better but sill quite ill Dresed her blisters and gave her some advise. She told me that she was not well used by the woman of the house (one of them being another wife of the chef, he having [3] wives) that her husband when drunk had said she was not sick or pained but that she was pretending. She is a half bread, a smarte and interresting woman who appears well worthy of a better situation than she now has. She is truly an object of commisseration suffering under the [moste] unfavour circumstances and best accommodations is seen. but how much worse here Day clear fine & dry

[May 1, 1841 Page 93]

Saturday May 1st.

Mrs. Irvin started with Father to the chiefs settlement particularly to see the wife of the principle chief who is ill and who I have been visiting I went on foot as soon as I could and meet Mrs. I. at the chiefs and her and I come home by the vilage where I taught some schollars only about 15. The woman have commenced to work at their fields and are takeing off some of the children, Another week is gone and its doings on my parts are recorded in the other world is it favourable or the reverse? I fear & not without reason that it is the latter. O. I am poor hell deserving sinner and can hope only in Christ.

Day warm and more fine than any for a long time past.

[May 3, 1841 Page 94]

Monday 3rd.

I may here mention once for all that I nevr wrote a stroke in my journal upon the Sabath. though all the forgoing writings implis that I did or I wrote as on the presise day. To do this I think would be rong and I moste likely will give up the practise and speak as it is Monday as in strictness all the foregoing ought to be. On yesterday we had meeting at Mr. Bradlys It being monthly consort. Mr. B. red an address sutable to the occasion. Some freedom in prayer Day cool and Cloudy an a little rain in the evening.

Today I went to the vilage and found about 15 schollars. posed by the chiefs houses and found some of them drunk

[May 4, 1841 Page 95]

and the poor afflicted woman not any better and but poorly treated. There suffering in case of sickness is not a few. I was fed quite high on sweet corn, to day so much that I do not now feel the better of it Day cloudy & evening wet.

Tusday 4

Went as usual to the vilage to teach, but found that moste of the male schollars were gone out on a skuting party. I was told that it was with great difficuly that they could be pursevaded to go. Some ware forced crying and weeping as they went. This a moste dreadful thing forcing the children away to be exposed to the vengence of an [XXXXX] Indian is little less

[May 5, 1841 Page 96]

cruel. But they must have them train for war, this to them is more pleasing that any litterary attanments that they could possibly make Taugh a good number of girls Day verry dark and cloudy and some gently rain remarkable wet. Lesson time given to the book in preparation for the press.

Wedensday 5

Before going to school I spent my time in prepareing a manuscript of the Book we are prepareing for the school. About 10 started to the vilage and taught what I could find, But the Boys have not come Back from their late expedition some I understand have gon for whisky and are expected soon. The woman are commencing to work in the fields Day dry clear and fine

[May 22, 1841 Page 113]

May Saturday 22 [1841]

Spent all the day in makeing preparations at the Book for the Ioways and had not time to do ought else beautiful shower in evening

Monday 24

Yesterday we went to the vilage and had a meeting with a number of Indians who gave medling attention. In the evening meet at Mr. Bradleys and had preaching. Today I [sill] assisted with Mr. Hamilton in prepareing a Book & I design starting in the morning if spared to Liberty to have it printed and Im now tired and can scarcly rite Dry Dry & warm

Monday June 7th

All the time between this and the last date above I have been absent from the station on a tour to Liberty for the purpose of having some

[Jun 7, 1841 Page 114]

printing done for our School at the station. On tusday we left home and came to the Missouri River at Rubedeaux, where we ware delayed in crossing untill evening. I found a small canoe in which I crosed Mrs. I & Eliot but we ware not able to cross or swim our horses by it. A french man & I made the attempt but in doing so ware thrown into the water and gave up the undertakeing. About dark through the petitioners of some mill rights and others who had the kindness to aid I suceeded in swimming the horses by the side of a Macanaw Boat we ware compeld to stay thare over night and recd a hospitable treatment from the woman who was mistress of the house.

On Wedensday the day following we went only to Mr. Ballards and ware much pleased to meet with our old friends they gave us a hearty welcome and then we spent the night.

[Jun 7, 1841 Page 115]

On Thursday I went on to Liberty and put up at the tavern of Mr. Isenhour. In the evening I was so ill that I was utterly unfit for any business severe pain in my head and loss of appetite. I found some letters at Liberty and among others two from the Board containing instructions for Mr. Bradly to leave the station for Chipaway. Friday I made contract for doing the printing for the School and from this until Thursday I was emploid mainly in seeing to the printing and correcting proofs. My leisure time was mostely spent in reading the Bible and some paper which I found at the office

On Thursday morning about 3 oclock I started homeward that I might improve the cool of the morning as much as possible. About 3 oclock I reached Mr. Ballards after making about 42 miles. and found al in [XXXXX]

[Jun 1841 Page 116]

On friday morning we made early preparations for starting on our way homeward but just as I was about geting on my horse I found that I was so ill as not to be safe for me to proceed farther. I returned and went to bed and took some medacine and was verry unwell all day Saturday we started for home, and when we landed at Rubedeaux we ware stoped about 2 hours on account of rain About 12 we crosed the River by swiming the horses by a canoe and about dark we reached home entertaining as I hope many sincere thanks for the kindnesses shown to us on our journy and in all our absence.

On Sabath we understand that the Indians ware so drunk that it was useless to attempt a meeting among them. At 3 meeting was attended at our room but

[Jun 1841 Page 117]

I was so ill that I was obliged to lie all the time of the exercise in bed. Today I am some better but I do not feel so well as to undertake a journy to the vilage. I spent moste of the day in company with Mr. Bradly and in assisting as far as I could in prepareing or aiding him in prepareing for the journy. On Reviewing my late journy I cannot look upon it in any other way than that we have been in a wonderful manner blesed and preserved. From the time I crosed the

River at Rubedeaux untill the present I have not enjoid one days good health not even an hours. I have also suffered from enflamed and sore eyes. All this and much more I deserve yet amid all this I have been able all the time to attend business and finally to reach my beloved home. Of that I may be more anxious about a home in the Skies that when I am done with this

[Jun 1841 Page 118]

troublesome life I may enjoy a substanail resting place at the right hand of the majesty on high I am one of the moste poor & miserable creatures over whom God extends his peculiar car. how unworthy the name of a missionary. how unworthy the name of a christian. Oh Shall I ever live at this poor dieing rate? I deserve more sever afflictions than any that ever has yet been endured and it is only because that Christ has endured for me that I so much escape *

Tusday 8th

Went with Mr. Bradly to the chefs and vilage but was so hurried that I did not get time to teach at the vilage. [Tare] was a large number of Boys come to our house for fish hooks &c. and I took the oppertunity of giving them a Lesson. * I may here remark in

[Jun 9, 1841 Page 119]

relation to the weather that all the while that I was at Liberty and previously (in that region it is wonderful dry, and what is moste remarkeable than has been almoste daily great appearences of rain Heavy thunderclouds, appearing to be loaded with rain pass over in various directions many are begining to despair of crops. It is thought that obacco and hemp will [XXXXX]. But we will have ``seed time & harvest,'' This day is as dry and warm as usual. The weather is as notable for heat as drouth while I was at Liberty the Thermometer stood at 99 in the shade

Wedensday 9

Went to the village and assisted Mr. Bradly who is ordered away from this place to another station by the Board, to pack up and make the needful preparations. He does design to start on the morrow, and it is

[Jun 10, 1841 Page 120]

contemplated having Sacrament or communion in the morning before he starts. In the evening we had our proper meting but not untill after night. Day wonderful dry and warm.

Thursday 10th

This morning befor five oclock we assembled in our room and had communion, after which Mr. Bradly and family took an affectionate and I suppose final leave of all at the station. It was quite affecting. we have spent years together on earth and in all probabuly will never see each other in this world. They are fine affection and tender people and ther departure seems like the loss of an dear friend. After they started I could not suppress my feelings. I had to give them vent in tears. I pray god that we may meet in heaven ususaly dry & warm is great [XXXXX].

[Jun 11, 1841 Page 121]

After they had started I started for the vilage but after going near a mile I was met by an Indian who told me they ware so drunk at the vilage that It was not worth while for me to go. I turned back and went to my studies. very Dry & warm

Friday 11

found a good number of Schollars who behaved well, all sober, but many much alarmed from report of a party of Omahaws being in march for war aganst the Ioways & Sax. But like all or moste reports of the sort, I suppose it very doubtful.

The weather continues wonderful dry & warm, the ground is powder and grass drying and but little of vegetation improveing

Saturday 12th.

Rode to the vilage today it being moste severely warm I had

[Jun 12, 1841 Page 122]

more than 20 schollars, but had some difficulty and discouragements, scarcely know how to proceed. They are takeing offence because I do not give more clothes, or greater rewards for learning. I am at time almoste led to dispare of the good of the poor Indians. It seems as if distruction is inevitably ther doom God may have large blessings in store for them But ther present condition is deploreable indeed They ware expecting more liquor this evening. Just as I was starting to the village Mrs. Whitecloud come with a light wagon full of ther moste valuable good for safekeeping against the Omahaws, who it is said are on a march against the Ioways & Sacks. Since the last war excursion they are in constant uneasiness and confusion fearing that the enemis will fall upon and destroy them at once

[Jun 13, 1841 Page 123]

As far as consearns my own feelings & experience I cannot see that it is much if any stronger than it was [XXXXX] or more years ago. This speaks Badly of my experience my time is growing more short. and I am nearder my journeys end than ever before and I ought now to feel more ready than ever I did. But I cannot think that this is the Case O Lord pity a Lord forgive do and difer not. for surely I am wonderful needy. prepare me Lord for the morrow Day amazing warm. In the evening great appearence of rain; but all failed

Sabath 13

Mr Hamilton & interpreter went to the vilage while I remained at home thare is so much uneasiness about Omahaws & Pawnees that it is hardly thought safe for all to leave at once

[Jun 14, 1841 Page 124]



In the afternoon we meet at Mr Hamiltons and I red in meeting a part of Millers sermon on the death of Wm. Bar. Last night wonderful appearence of rain Lightening was constantly flashing but no rain.

Monday 14

while at worship [Hromonga] came drunk the first drunk Indian which has visited us this Summer. He was quiate and not disposed to be mischeevous. I went to the chefs houses and found moste of them drunk. I had a good number of schollars at the old vilage. I went to the Sack vilage to have a plough brought home. found them replanting their corne, It has not come up because of the drouth. Many temptations and seem to have but little strenght to slow against them poor miserable creature But god is merceful Day quite cool some rain must have fallen N. wind W.

[Jun 15, 1841 Page 125]

Tusday 15th. [June 1841]

Took Nancy to the vilage to aid in giting some sewing thread, which was solen on yesterday Before we reached the vilage we understood that maney in the vilage ware drunk, when in light of the vilage we war satisfied of the truth of the report. we sat down and for a time hesited wheather we should go in or return home, we ventured in finally But could not teach. Maney ware drunk some angry & disposed to fight. we soon found our way homeward, without affecting anything. After night Mr. H. and I went to see Mrs. [Rubeth] who is very low in sickness & did not return untill near midnight. Day cool and mostely cloudy.

[Jun 16, 1841 Page 126]

Wedensday 16th.

Soon after sun up a gentle shower came on which continued until near 12 and moste Beautifuly refreshed vegitation which has been long parched under a [XXXXX] [some] It is truly a matter of no small gratitude that providence has been thus pleased to visit the earth with a refreshing shower. But do not I need a shower of divine graces more than the earth needs the rain? Shurly I ought to ben moste desireous for the soul. It was so wet & having no horse I remained at home. Sifted flour convesed long with Mr. H. In the evening had meeting at Mr. Hamils. for weather see above

[Jun 17, 1841 Page 127]

Thursday 17th.

Went to the vilage and was favoured in teaching Schollars. few but did well. Just as I was concluding my teaching some whiskey came to the vilage and it was soon serounded and produced its usual affect. Noise, confusion and fighting much prevailed, and I soon left the noise for home. Mr & Mrs. Hamilton spent the evening at our house Morng very foggy and dark and some rain fall afternoon Cloudy & warm

Friday 18

Started soon and went round by the houses of the chefs and when thare found their fences so bad and the grain in such a

[Jun 17, 1841 Page 128]

condition that I concluded I would omit school and try to aid preserving the remaining crops. All ther patches of wheat is destroyed except two. This is vexacious as It a short time ago looked verry promising, and they ware much pleased as also was the farmer. But ther Indolence which seems incredible and more than I can easily bare. had two or three of them went out in the Cool of the morning, they might have had their wheat in good prospect They seem to take no thought for the morrow & particulary none for the next year. ``sufficient unto the day in the evil thereoff.'' Day foggy in the morning. Cloudy all day & verry warm

[Sept 3, 1841 Page 177]

Friday & Saturday 3 & 4th Sept.

Continued to work verry hard at the house, untill about 3 oclock when I finished the west room. from 3 to night I dressed shaved &c. Week steals upon week and the last week will come. I have today had serious thoughts that my last week may not be verry distant. I am takeing some panes in fixing up our dwellings and it maybe that when I get them completed I may be calld from them and am I assured of a house not made with hands in heaven when I leave these tattering walls? Am I as labourious and as anxious for an assurence of a heavenly house as I am to have our present temporal dwelling in good repare? May I keep up a stead spirit of self examination. Yesterday cloud today more clear both very warm

[Sep 6, 1841 Page 178]

Monday 6th.

On yesterday we attended meeting at Mr. Hamiltons. He spent some time in explaneing the difficult parts of the 8th Chapter of Romans. But the exposition was I thought rather docternal than practactle. Today I resumed my labour at the house repairing floors &c. which is difficult and disagreeable It brings to mind the purgeing out the old [liver] or removeing the old corruptions of sin and wickedness in the carnal heart. Day warm and verry fine with severe winds from the south.

Saturday 11th.

All this week I have been so busy at my house and my eyes

[Sep 6, 1841 Page 179]

eyes so sore at night that I have not been able to keep a regular diary of the time On monday I had Rubeth & Decatre to mow & on tusday afternoon I put up what was mowed. On wedensday I finished the floors of our two rooms and on Thursday I made some other repares and assisted in cleansing the house. On yesterday and today I made preparations for improveing the house on the other side of the river By hewing logs getting some Clapboards and &c. On today I quit work before night and spent some time in walking round the place and seeing the fruits which providence has been pleased to give us. our Corn is good potatoes pumpkins &c are of an excellent quality and verry abundent. On looking

[Sep 6, 1841 Page 180]

over the Summer I cannot but feel [assboured] at my [felling] fears &c. The truth was so great in the forepart of the season that I thought thare would be no corn and was fearing that we would die in want. But Providence has always out striped my highest expectations and in a wonderful manner has done it this year O how far beyond my [XXXXX] has providence for me and my family through all our journey. On last night Mr. Tinker staid at our house said he has been at the mountains one year and traded some whisky, at that place it takes 5 gills to make a pint, when they measure the liquor they will not fill the gill, measure quite full and then will not pour it all out

[Sep 13, 1841 Page 181]

They give a pint for a Buffalow Skin He was onse [himself] he said in great Danger at the [Sheanne] vilage in tradeing liquor, some wanted to take his whisky while others ware opposed, and it rose to a severe fight among the Indians but he was not hurt. nor did he know his danger untill near a week after the lodge was cut to peaces in which he was. On Tusday evening it commenced to rain and rained with out little intermission untill Thursday night. we supose it to be the equinoxial storm. This morning thare was a little frost this day was clear and cool

Monday 13th.

On yesterday Mr. Ham-

[Sep 13, 1841 Page 182]

had to fill an appointment on the other side of the River and I accompanied him He made a discourse from these words ``And in hell he lifted up his eyes being in torment. I made a few remarks in conclusion, with a view mainly to enforce attention to what had been said. Thare ware but few out, we ware told that the grog shops ware two numerous and too well attended on the Sabath, to allow large congregations at preaching. Dr Smith was thare and brought us some letters Today I resumed working at the house split some clapboards and in the afternoon I made a new tongue

[Sep 13, 1841 Page 183]

for the wagon. In the evening the Agt. Maj. Richardson came with his family to Mr. Hamiltons and I suppose intends to reside here. It is a fine arrangement it will I hope keep the Indians in better subjection. In the evening before the agent come [Shooneton] come drunk but was peaceable. [So no] after another came at full spead, let off at Mr Hamiltons but wa stoped by Mr. H. and with the aid of a sober indian who came to attend to him, we with some difficulty got him away Poor Indians are wonderfully drunken yesterday morning clear afternoon Cloudy today morning few drops of rain and appearance of more but afternoon clear & fine

[Sep 14, 1841 Page 184]

Tusday 14th.

Continued to work at the house prepareing to raise it higher and put on a new roof. On Sabath last mother and Rhoda ware taken sick and today both ware much worse Rhoda especially. In fact she appeared verry low indeed she was destitute of her sences for moste of the day and talked quite foolishly in the evening when suffering moste severe pain She repeted part of her prayers verry distantly especially ``If I should die before I wake I pray the Lord my soul to take.'' This she done in a moste affecting manner which brought tear to the eyes of those who heard and saw I could not but feal sorry to see the inocent child suffer so much but God knows what is Best and his will be done. Day pleasant & wind South.

[Sep 18, 1841 Page 185]

Saturday 18th.

Since the last date, I have been prevented in various ways from writing regularly in my Diary, mainly from two reasons, 1st sore eyes & 2nd sickness in the family. Rhoda and Eliot has both been quite unwell, especially on Thursday night, and to day It appears something like the Agu fever. It seems to renew its attack every second day and is quite severe Rhoda has grown [quite] low she is scarcely able to set up at all and while the fever prevails she is quite deranged in mind. Has but little appetite and is growing weaker every day

Tusday 21st

Since the last date I have done but little except take care of the sick of our Family. Rhoda & Eliot both have been very sick. On Sabath

[Sep 18, 1841 Page 186]

Eliot was taken with a severe fever and some simptoms of Croup or hives Dureing the night he continued to grow worse and worse and by daylight he had every simptom of an advanced stage in the Croup we found that something must be done soon and we gave immediately an active [Emelick], and followed it with a dose of Calomel which to all appearence subdued the dreadful disorder The verry first motion of the vomit gave releaf The hoarseness was at once removed and swet and [marshis] immediately followed the now appears quite well except that he has a verry bad cold thought it appears loose and his nose runs verry fast. We hope that with care he may be fully restored

[Sep 18, 1841 Page 187]

Rhoda has been quite ill [XXXXX] vomited severely & repeatedly purged with calomel coil & [XXXXX] besides by [injected] and Blistered She is extremely weak though for two days she has had little or no fever and been eating as much as is safe she is not yet able to walk having all the time to lie in bed or being supported by pillows on chair. How wonderful kind is the merciful providence which has ever protected us and restored us to health. Mrs. I & my self have in the mean time been some unwell but are now convelecent. ware I to attempt to enumarate the ways in which the mercy and goodness of God appears to us I would at be lost. good food houses frends, medacine, weather clothes Beds fuel &c are but a few of the ways in

[Sep 25, 1841 Page 188]

which God has in wonder shown his care and tendernss to us May we magnify the Lord for his goodness to us The weather lately a [sincXX] than middle of last week has been different verry, from what was general through the Summer. Wet verry wet more or less every day. On yesterday we had a moste severe rain more so than any for the Summer it seems to be the clearing up Shower comeing from the [N.] W. and very hard and continued for a long time. This evening is clear and the weather looks as if it was settled.

Saturday 25th.

Since the last date sickness and business has hindred me from writing regularly. Rhoda is much better indeed she appears to be with care out of

[Sep 25, 1841 Page 189]

danger. But Eliot is very Bad we have at times nearly Dispared of him living. He appears to have a fever of the intermittent kind which is verry obstinate and unyielding, and which at times is attended with Diarrehea which is to us somewhat alarming. Mrs. Irvin is verry much alarmed. In fact more, much more than she ought. For my own part. I believe that I could rejoice in seeing him leave this world though to the flesh I know it would be severe. But I know that this world is so troublesome and dangerous that I cannot wish one who I love so well to remain long in it; particularly when they are prepared for leaving it with good hope of makeing a profitable exchange. I have all the time worked busily at the house. On Friday we raised it several rounds higher and today finished puting on the roof

[Sep 27, 1841 Page 190]

On Thursday we finished puting up our hay. Some of it had lain out under sever rains but was but little injured. The weather rather gloomy and warmer than is generally expected at this season

Monday 27

On yesterday Mr. Hamilton and Father went over the [run] Mr. H. Had an appointment at Mr. Robineses on the point who is reputed to be a whiskey trader. This is remarkable, what the real object of the man in soliciting preaching at his house as is unknown but we moste sincerely prey that It may be brought about to the good of the family and the neighbourhood which appears to be nearly a [Bendity] or set of out caws dead to every principle of morality and even [XXXXX.] we had

[Sep 28, 1841 Page 191]

not any religious exercise (publick) untill afternight Day fine

Today worked at the house finished the porch verry tired and scarcely able to write Eliot is some better. But far from being well Day cloudy and little rain, warm

Tusday 28th.

Worked all day at the house and being alone I worked hard and to some disadvantage In the evening I was so far through that I could scarcely work at all. I fixed the front door and cut out and put in a windo in the west end of the house Day fine wind from the south.

Wedensday 29th

Continued to work at the house. was alone moste of the day. father being hauling stone to make him put a windo in the Back of the house Day fine dry and cloudy

[Oct 9, 1841 Page 192]

Saturday 9th Oct.

Absence from home and busenes while at home has prevented me from making enter in my diary since the last date. On a week past from yesterday Mr. Hamilton and started to the nodaway. He had an appointment thare to hold a sacrament thare, and. It seemed to be with some difficulty that I could pearswade myself to go with him to the place of appointment; my busines at home appearing so urgent. But I went & I have great reason to bless the Lord for his loveing kindnesses to me his mercies ware moste clearly shown. The occasin was one of no small importance. Mr. Hamilton laboured hard to set forth the truth of the gosple and the importence of its acquirements.

[Oct 17, 1841 Page 109]

and I concluded to go to look a little for him. I started on foot not expecting to go far, but went on and on with increasing haste and anxiety, untill near ``wachamonus near 3 miles befor I meet with him He had been lat in geting the meal across the river and then started and finally left the wagon Day cloudy & cool and some appearence of snow.

Saturday 17

At Day breake I started for the meal which father had left on yesterday, got home before noon and in the evening assisted in geting up some corn Day cool & cloudy but now snow or rain.

Tusday 23rd. from some cause I have mised the propectate of the month and have concluded to commence in the new with a view of keeping up my regular diary in the proper time. I have been much thronged with business lately that I have been culpabaly negligent on this part, for the time to come I hope to be more prompt Days past have been fine dry but cool & clear

[Oct 24, 1841 Page 110]

Wedensday 24

Spent the day in makeing some fence fixing my corn cribes, which have just been filld with corn for the winter and makeing all preparations in my power for the comeing storms of the winter In the evening meet in our room for meeting Day was cloudy and strong appearences of snow.

Thursday 25

About 10 oclock last night a severe snow storm commenced and continued all night, and all this day without the least intermission snow is more than a foot deep and in many places drifted many feet. I did but little else than reed and but little of that as my attention was directed much towards the beasts in the storm.

Friday 26 worked some out and wrote some letters in the evening got some news in the form of papers and feasted on them

[Oct 27, 1841 Page 111]

Commenced teaching our Children Elisha & Swift from Mr. Ballards has come as interpreter and bords with we have formed a class of their and our Children which will receive some attention though winter if god permit Day some cloudy this evening clear & severely could.

Saturday 27th

Today Mr. Richardsons family left our room and somepart of the day was spent in this way. A Box was received a donation from some Ladies in Louisville Ka. and the examination and division of in also took some part of my time. The residu was in the study and instructing the Indian Children. I did think that this winter would be appropriate closely to study bu I find my time wonderfully [solen] away. My prayer is that it my not be to the loss of my [sad] Day clear but night very could. Snow deep

[Oct 29, 1841 Page 112]

Monday 29

On yesterday we had meeting at Mr. Hamiltons, we had a good sermon from Mr. H. Today I was quite unwell did not pretend to do much other than lay in the house and what time I was able read and write. Day very clear and fine but snow deep and could

Tusday 30

Still unwell and did but little, red and studied what I was able I fear I am getting the Dispepsia the simptoms seem to indicate that Day fine and more moderate.

Wedensday 1st. Dec.

Some better, [XXXXX] some out, at takeing up my potatoes

[Dec 2, 1841 Page 113]

or rather picking out the rotten ones from the sound and put them good away for winter. Meeting at Mr. H. had some freedom and [XXXXX] on [draft] more than for some time past. Day was in and afternoon Cloudy

Thusday 2nd.

So unwell that I did not pretend to do much of anything. Was quite ill though I think I was some better Poor man at his lust is but a frail mortal and must soon leave this mortal state, with me it must soon be so In the evening Mr. Dixon came here from the Platt River and county to make arrangements for geting some flour brought from the River Day moderate thawing icle almost gone

Friday 3rd.

Spent the morning in some

[Dec 4, 1841 Page 214]

busines with Mr. Dixon when he and father started about eleven oclock for the Platt father does not think of comeing back until next week perhaps the last wishes to buy a wagon and oxen for the Indian farm got some wood &c. Day fine moderate and thawing.

Saturday 4th.

Spent the moste of the day at the Smith Shop in make a crane for our kitchen fine place Day verry fine clear and moderate

Monday 6th

Yesterday meeting was at our house Mr. H. preached a practicle sermon & in the evening we meet for monthly consert I made some remarks [XXXXX] [XXXXX] to show that a christian spirit is a missionary spirit. wherever we find deep [XXXXX] we find a true missionary spirit or love to [man]

[Dec 7, 1841 Page 215]

Today we went to assist Mr. Montague to put a stable for the Agent spent all the day and in the evening was unfit for study having in addition to my weariness a severe tooth ake and bad cold. Day very fine clear and moderate.

Tusday 7

Assisted in measureing some corn for the Agent and geting some wood In the evening Mr. Estes come with some hogs for the agent and ourselves quite warm and mostely clear

Wedensday 8

On yesterday Mr. Estes from the Platt came with some hogs for the Agency and mission and today we all engaged in killing which took up near all the day In the evening we had meeting at

[Dec 9, 1841 Page 216]

our room Day fogy in the morning and gloomy all the evening

Thirsday 9th.

All this day was spent in cuting up salting away &c. at the meet which was butchered on yesterday, found my meet much better and much more abundent than I expected. How merciful passing all immagination is the merciful preserver of our lives and giver of all things. We at this station have been moste wonderfully provided for this season having all our provisions delivered to us in good order and at a verry cheep rate 50 per cent below what was usual, and without any time being lost in hunting or strength spent in [delivery] after the provisions on hand. Surely we should be at least 50 percent more devoted and more obedient than formerly Day very fine, remarkably warm

[Dec 10 Page 217]

Friday 10th.

This day was emploid in finishing up our butchering matters hauling some wood covering some potatoes and &c Still strongly emprised with the thought of Gods wonderful kindness. I am [XXXXX] to doubt that we may enjoy our good things in this life only may God in his mercy [portend] Day very clear & moderate

Saturday 11th.

Spent all the day in assisting Mr. Martin in puting up some [buddings] which he had undertaken to put up for the agent, at the Agency on the Sack land. Mr. Martyn come to spend the evening and as he is siting talking I cannot write much correctly Day very fine warm and dry.

[Dec 13, 1841 Page 218]

Monday 13th.

On yesterday Mr. Hamilton preached a fine sermon from these words prepare to meet thy God. It was a most pathetick and important discourse and verry appropriate in preparation for our expected Communion on next Sabath. Day gloomy and moderate

Today spent some time in teaching the Children Choped some wood studied some and wrote some also Many conflicts and trials especially of an earthly nature perplexed wonderfully with a worldly minds spirit when shall I get rid of this spectre which so much troubles me night and day Day cloudy and moderate

Tusday 14

Spent the day in study

[Dec 21, 1841 Page 219]

so much pain in my head from study and mental fatigue that I cannot write much Day moderate cloudy and warm

Tusday 21st.

Since the last note my time and feelings have been so interrupted by sickness and especially pains in my teeth that I could not muster courage and composure to write. On last Sabath the Ordinence of the Sacrament was attended in this place, and moste of my time prevous was spent in some way trying to prepare myself for the solemnities and importence of the ocassion. Friday last was our fast day I had some temptations and much coldness. But I must believe that God manifasted himself in some good [gigree] on the Sabath, in affording composure of mind and freedom from worldly thoughts, which do so often and miserably perplex me I am one of the poorest ungreatful, and groveling of all gods creatures, forgeting my lust interests and

[Dec 21, 1841 Page 220]

[XXXXX] shamefully and sinful to this world which perished. The Sacrament is now over and my obligations are increased and vows renewed May the Lord enable me to live to his honour and especially to the destruction of this sinful love of the world. On yesterday I went to the ferry to inquire about some oxen belonging to the Ioways which ware left thare a few days ago after a vain attempt to swim them across the river The distance was aleast 18 miles and I went & returned in one day though I did not start until after ten oclock I reached home about 8 or 9 oclock after a could and tiresome ride. I was well prepared with clotheing and did not suffer much I still feel quite unwell weak and want of strength and energy My days may be drawing near a close. God knows my business is to be ready, which may God grant for Christs Sake

weather could fuseing and mostly cloudy

[Dec 22, 1841 Page 221]

Wedensday 22

On last evening I became so unwell that I found it necessary to take some phisick which prevented me from doing much today but nurce myself. This evening I feel much better, was able to go to the agency to prayer meeting which was appointed thare this evening to accommodate our kind Christian neighbours in that place. Mr. H. gave a good exortation in regard to the proper place of moving our treasure Day moderate and some snow fell.

Thursday 25

Choped some wood, and spent some time at the Smith Shop. Just as I came from the Shop I saw by the corner of the field a sack squaw wrestling with a drunken [XXXXX] who was so drunk and cold as to be about

[Dec 22, 1841 Page 222]

insensible, he had fallen down and lain for some time, and became so numb with could as not to have the use of his limbs. I went to her assistence, and we ware soon after joined by Mr. Hamilton, and together we took him to his lodge. After super I heard that two had been seen still farther back along the road who ware unable to walk and who from the couldness of the evening must soon perish I started after them, it being some time after dark but at first did not find aney and returned, but geting more direct information I started with an Ioway Indian and we found the one neardest our house. He was nearly child not able to walk and his blanket froze to the ground. We got him up and by our walking under each arm we dragged him to the house We then started for the other who we found at least a mile from the house and who appeared to have lost nearly all use or pacers of his limbs He could not speak or walk and for some distance we had to infact carry him along, but gradly he become

[Dec 24, 1841 Page 223]

more able to support himself, and after much labour and with the aid of an ocasional rest we got him home also. After they came a little to me succeeded in getting them to their own camp which was about a quarter It appeared that their people ware [grount] or careless of the situation and as the night was severely could the moste so if aney we have had this season they must have soon persisted. It is a privilege to be able to rescue even one of these poor creatures from an earthly grave But how much more important to be instrumental in snaking them from the edge of eternal destruction. Day mostly clear and severely could.



Friday 24

Part of the day was spent in getting some wood, the rest in study and writing except some time with the agent, and the Indians in my room Day fine not severely could but freeseing.

[Dec 25, 1841 Page 224]

Christmas 25 Dec.

Spent moste of the day in geting wood for the kitchen. Finished a discourse which I have had on hand for near two weeks. It is a long time but poor enough. I am not shure that am right in not spending this day more in devotion to bring to mind more forcibly the Saviours [condiscention] and amaseing mercy. It is thought to be a catholick notion but one thing is clear I cannot prey too much or have too affecting views of the Saviour in his amaseing plans of love to the children of men. Every occasion ought moste clearly to be improved which would be in the last calculation to exalt and enlarge our views of this subject Day beautiful could and clear

[Title Page 1842]

Diary & Journal

At

Ioway Mission

January 1st. A.D. 1842

S.M. Irvin

Vol. 5th

[Blank page]

[Jan 1, 1842 Page 3]

January 1st A.D. 1842

Commenced the year under greater favourable appearences and circumstances. The day was moste fine being clear and miled and the ground covered with a light skift of snow Our family at the station all enjoy good health and in the year that has past we have all been much favoured in this respect. But maney of the poor Indians have gone to their long home and maney have suffered severly from sickness and other ways. Maney missionaries no doubt and eminent and useful servents of God have been calld hence to be here no more, while we have been favoured with blessings without number. Shurely our Souls should magnify the Lord for all his tender mercies and care. In the morning we meet before day light to unite in prayer for Gods blessing on us and his favours to be con-

[Jan 3, 1842 Page 4]

tinued through the comeing year; and at four oclock we meet again for the same purpose. But moste part of the day was spent in assisting Mr. Reaves to put up a stable for Mr. Gillmore

Monday 3rd.

On yesterday we had two meetings at our house and spent some time among the Indians who ware camped near us. one old man seems to be near his grave. We spent moste of the time in trying to talk and pray with him we ware embaresed with our present interpreter who seems to be verry imperfect both in English and Indian. The old man [Corger] (a chef) showed some desire of knowing a better way than the one which he had pursued. But he showed wonderful ignorence and some bigoty in his own views. Today he sent up word that he wished us to go and see him and prey for him at least 3 or 4 days. Today Mr. H.

[Jan 4, 1842 Page 5]

and visited him and found him some better to all appearences. He told us that he had seen the spirit of some friend which had long since died. This is a verry prevailing notion among them they suppose that the spirits of their friends return to invite them to the other world and purhaps escort them to the place of their future abode. Mr. H. sung and preyed with him, and he seemed to receive it verry well We spent some time in searching after some timber to make boards Day dandy but moderate looks some like snow.

Tusday 4th.

Spent some part of the day visiting the Indians and some in cuting two clapboard trees. In the afternoon I went down to near Woolf River to look for some stone that would be suitable for a foundation to the intended building. Maney strong temptations about the world and the [tings] of disposed much

[Jan 5, 1842 Page 6]

to try to secure a large portion of it. It is vain trash and I know it and withall I find a strong disposition to reach after it, greatly to my sin shame and condemnation Day nearly totally clear but quite could wind West evening south -------

Wedensday 5

As I was about going to work Mr. Richardson came to have me asist him in makeing out some accounts to send on to St. Louis, and in this way I spent nearly all the day. In the evening we meat Mr. Preston Richardsons for prayer meeting I felt some couldness as usual. What a pity to be could on the way to heaven when thare is so much life and warmth Day very moderate thawed considerable wind from the South.

Saturday 8th.

Since the last date I have been moste of the time assisting Maj. Richardson to arrange his accounts and make out his quarterly report for the last year, and having company

[Jan 5, 1842 Page 7]

every evening I have neglected to wriote. On wensday Mr. Ballard and Mr. Dixon came with some hogs to the Indians and did not leave untill today The evening was spent with Mr. Ballard and Mr. Dixon. But the subject of religion was but little on hands. It is true, we worshiped regularly but that seems to be nearly all our devotion

It is a thousand pities that travellers on the same way can not talk more about the way the entertainment the trials the prospects and such like of the way The Sacks recd near 50 hogs verry large & fat. the design was to mak Bacon of it but they ware so folish that they would like it all at once. It was impossible to prevail upon them to change their course It is another mark of their degradation and folly. But in relation to spiritual things they are much more [ineconomical] Poor mortals seem to [XXXXX] swift towards destruction Weather quite moderate & generally cloudy & gloomy

[Jan 10, 1842 Page 8]

Monday 10th.

on yesterday we meet in Mr. Hamiltons house for meeting. and according to Mr. Hamilton request I set the exercises I had some remarks prepared on the 30 chapter of Isaiah which I red. It was but poor compared with what it ought to be and what I at all times to be prepared to make extemporaneously. I am por and ignoreant and slow to learn, dull of apprehension and willing to remain in the dark. Today I commenced hueing Barn logs Mr. Clifton & Mr Oneall came over the River to get some work and I emploid them a day or two to assist at the work They are good bonds and having the help of Mr. Richardsons Black man got along quite well Days fine moderate in day time

[Jan 14, 1842 Page 9]

Friday 14

Since the last date, I have been busily emploid mostely for both night and day, Monday & tusday was spent in hueing logs for the stable. The days since except this has been mostely spent with the Agent in arrangeing his paper and makeing his last quarterly report.

Last evening was spent later at the work and we ware enabled to make a finish of all the busines nessary on the present report. It is moste astonishing how the time is passing away Another week has nearly gon by and not done much for [new] for the good of my Soul or the glory of god I fear I am growing more and more worldly minded instead of growing dead to world geting nearder to it Shame! Shame! All the days of this week have been moste beautiful pleasant and comefortable

[Jan 15, 1842 Page 10]



Saturday 15

Spent moste of the forenoon in Mr. Hamiltons room, conversing on the subject of our labours among the Indians, desirous of falling upon some more efficient way of labouring among them particularly in regard to teaching them letters and the subject of religion. Our [frailties] are poor and we are purhaps more poor in improveing them Days and weeks are passing away and but little doing one thing is clear, we find the Indians both are drawing near to the great day of final accounts, for several nights together our ears have been almoste constantly [selected] with the noise of the Sax dancing Two Pawnees have lately came down and great [XXXXX] has been made. [Dousing] has been nearly constantly kept up Many present has been give &c. Day wonderful fine mild and warm, in

[Jan 17, 1842 Page 11]

the afternoon I choped some clapboard stuff and went to visit old Mr. Plumb who has so long been to all appearences near the point of death, he is some better

Monday 17

On yesterday we had meeting at our room and though the day was favourable and a number of people in reach of the meeting but few attended. It is a pity to see so much carelessness in the minds and conduct of those who have such immortal and important intersts at stake But no doubt their inactivity and inattention is not by any means greater or as great as ours, in proportion to the ability, profession and oppertunity of honouring god and doing good to souls. Day very fine day and warm Today I as sent for to the Agent to aid him in some accounts which he is making out for goverment. I went soon

[Jan 18, 1842 Page 12]

morning and returned about noon and went back in the evening About 3 oclock the whole company of Chefs braves and principle men of the Ioway nation came to the agent to make him a visit and it fell upon me to interpret they behaved quite well and ware as [formal] and orderly in council as I have ever seen. Day remarkable fine warm clear & dry

Tusday 18

Continued to aid the Agent in writing and a large portion of the day was taken up with a council with the Ioways in which I had to act as interpreter I succeeded much beyond my own expectation, and was to the satisfaction of both parties than I thought would be in my power This day was remarkable high wind from the South and almoste as warm as summer.

Wedensday 19

Commenced to hue timber but the day was so severe that we did not

[Jan 20, 1842 Page 13]

not continue longer than to the midle of the day. In the afternoon I was in the house moste of the day. This is a wonderful contrast to yesterday about midnight last night it commenced to thunder and rain some. Before day it [thunder] [XXXXX] [how] and in the morning the grove was covered with snow and the rain which had fallen was all turned to ice the wind and snow came strong from the north and is now severly could.

Thursday 20th.

Was under the necessity of going to the Agents with one of the chiefs on some businss. In the day I hauled some wood and choped some also. spent what time I could in writing reading &c Day cold but clear & fine

Friday 21st.

Worked all day hard at hauling stone for the foundation of the stable had the gilmors oxen and hauled only two [tons] from

[Jan 22, 1842 Page 14]

woolf River. the day was severly cold on the prairie but clear and beautiful

Saturday 22nd.

Attended to busines for the Agent moste part of the day went with him to see old plums (Ioway Chef) who is near to the point of death. Poor old man is near to the other world and surely his prospects are very dark His mind is nearly gone and he cannot seem to comprehend what is said Day fine moderate & clear

Monday 24th.

On yesterday we went down at the usual time to plums to hold meeting. As soon as we went in we saw it evident that the old man was near his last. He was utterly insensible of all that was passing. We proceeded to have meeting which was attended with the usual difficulty in want of a good Interpreter. About the close of the meeting the old man breathed his last a loud lamentation was soon commenced

[Jan 22, 1842 Page 15]

by all the friends present. On of the old woman his wife (for he had two wives) came towards Mr. H and I and causeing her hands placed one on each of our heads and said helpe me I am a poor widow or to this amount. These two old woman (one of whom was entirely blind attended him carefully though all his illness. I cannot think that I have ever seen more tenderness exhibited in the moste tender relations of sivilization. They wished something to wrap him in and expresed a desire that we should aid in his interment and adopt our manner of burying. Today we commenced at this as early as possible. made a coffin out of clapboards dug a shallow grave and in part buryed him in their own way. This took moste of the day. In the evening I went out to the agent and spent part of the evening - Both days ware very fine night could but days clear and moderate.

[Jan 25, 1842 Page16]

Tusday 25

In the forenoon assisted in making a bridge over the creek between us and the chiefs houses. In the afternoon sawed some clapboard stuff and choped down wood. In the evening wrote apart of a letter to the Board of directors of our mission suffer from time to time sever trials and temptations about worldly maters May the Lord pity me and draw me away from all that is offencive and to what is good Day very fine moderate and clear

Wedensday 26

In the forenoon we all went to work at and finish the new bridge on to the way to the chefs houses, we finished a very fine bridge indeed which will afford the Indians a fine example of good bridge building In the afternoon I wrote some and red considerable. In the evening meet at Mr. Hamiltons. Day fine very warm

Thursday 27

Assisted the Agent in his busines near all day writing &c. Day wonderful fine wind strong from the South.

[Jan 28, 1842 Page 17]

Friday 28

Some time ago Father had bought a yoke of oxen for the Ioway Indians and had left them on the other side of the River. Several attempts has been made to bring them over but all have [XXXXX] to failed, and they are still thare on expense. It was thought that I go down today having an opertunity for company and bring them up together with some flour which was at the river. The Agent was going to Robedeaux and we started early together. We reached the ferry at one or two oclock The Agent went on & I stoped to take over the flour &c. I found the cattle ware gon from the place and, so that I could not do anything at crossing them today, we crosed the flour, and encamped on this bank. we had quite as comefortable a night as could be expected in january at a camp without a shelter but few bed clothes, and scarce of [victels.] We had a little meat and flour, and one pan was all the vessel of any sort which we had It was difficult to cook but we enjoid ourselves quite well.

[Jan 29, 1842 Page 18]

Saturday 29

Before day the wagon with flour started on before day & I waited untill daylight to hire if anything was known of the oxen. At day word came that the [Oxen] had came up last night, and so it was necessary that an attempt be made at crossing them. Our craft was a loos platform laid on two canoes without pening or a hard rail. One of the oxen we got on after some difficulty and with great care we succeeded in geting him over. We then got the other on but he was restless, and after going a little distance he run round on one side of the platform and sunk one of the canoes plunged in to the water and made for shore. In the scuffle he puld me off too. I fell in the water, and first I tried to reach the botom but could not touch I was then compeld to swim to shore, which took me some time atleast longer that I was desireous of being in the water at that temprature. I had all my heavy clothes on but was able to swim quite easily. Thare was below me a quantity of drift snags &c which I feared I would be [drin] into but I reached the shore in good time I immediately ran to a house which was but

[Jan 30, 1842 Page 19]

a short distance off, and dried myself as well as I could whilst they repard the platform took breakfast and &c. we afterwards succeeded in swiming him by the side of the platform I then started homeward which I reached a little after sun set. Gods mercis are at all times clearly manifast, but up on this occasion verry conspicuous. Had I been thrown out in the midle of the stream I could not have reached the shore without having been moste severely child, and moste likly lost, and in how many ways might I, even near as I was to the shore have been alarmed, strangled, entangled in my clothes, struck on a [XXXXX] thrown under drift or in some way been drowned or distrod. May I live to the honour and servis of that God who has in such a special manner made my life his care.

The two days have been exceedingly fine clear and warm wind from the South, and gentle fresing at night.

Monday 31st.

On yesterday we went to nohats lodge and had some religious exercises. Chancy was our only Interpreter, while thare Mr. Hamilton took quite sick and in the afternoon was not able

[Feb 1, 1842 Page 20]

to attend our meeting. It fell to me to conduct the meeting. I made more than an hours remarks on the 10 chp of mark. thare was a number present who behaved well and gave respectful attention.

Today I did some busines for the Agent, and hued some logs, together with writing a letter, containing some facts in relation to the death and interment of Plum. Days continue verry fine

Tusday Feb. 1st.

William, Maj. Richardsons Black man is very sick, part of the day was spent in attending on him hueing some logs and &c

Wedensday 2nd

Spent the day in hueing for the Stable. Mr. Pierce came in the morning to assist me in choping but about 8 oclock Maj Richardson sent to have him go for the doctor to see a negrow man who was verry sick, so that I was left alone except what aid father gave me which was not much

[Feb 3, 1842 Page 21]

he being absent a part of the day at the Agents. In the evening we had prayer meeting at Mr. P. Richardsons But it was rather cool to me and I suppose from appearnce it was the same to moste present. It is a pity a great pity that it should be thus may God forgive and to his great name be all the praise Day very warm Geese pased near to our house today on their way north.

Thirsday 3rd

This day was spent rather idilly and very undesireably. On yesterday Dr. Smith was sent for to see [Wm] Richardsons black man, and it was expected that he would [XXXXX] the man today by 12 oclock I went to meet him and assist him to the mission and Agency. I went early to be in time and spent all the day excep what I [XXXXX] on the [bout] some exposed and uncomefortable. before sunset word came that he (the doctor) was gone home and I had to return home as I went

[Feb 4, 1842 Page 22]

From my exposure and the want of food I had a severe headake and was quite unwell But since rest and supper I feel much better thanks be to the giver of all good things His mercis never fail and his tender mercis are over all his works. Day moderate and wind changeable.

Friday 4

Spent part of the day among the Indians and a part at Mr. Richardsons with Mrs. Irvin and seeing the sick. Wm is Better But jackson the quapaw Indian is [now[ very bad indeed today he is now much worse than ever. This evening I was quite unwell pain in my hed and [XXXXX] stomach Day fine

Saturday 5th.

Spent part of the day in hueing logs for my stable and part of the day was at the Agents and with Mr. Hamilton among

[Feb 7, 1842 Page 23]

the Indians. We went just to the Ioway encampment and then to the Sacs, where they ware busily engaged in playing what is calld the Mockison game. They displayed much earnestness and great enthusiasm the game agitateing their bodies and extending their voices to the utmost. They ware painted and dresed in a great variety of forms, and made many strange appearences. The day was moderate and the house quite warm so that they swet [farely] in their exertions. It is wonderful what interest they take in this which to us appears the height of nonesense. The poor Indians seem wonderfully contented with their old way of living. The prejudices strong and hard to overcome. The improvement seems to be but slow if inded they advance attall. Day quite warm wind South.

Monday 6th

On yesterday we meet at Mr Hamiltons and he preached a well

[Feb 8, 1842 Page 24]

digested Sermon, and In the evening we meet at the same place for monthly consort. In the day I felt very cold and lifeless, but in the evening I had more earnestness and freedom at a throne of grace than usual. It is touching to think of so many millions of heathen sunk in darkness, and especially so maney immediately around us who are so careless and unconsearned about their everlasting interests Today I hued some timber, and not being very well I spent a part of the day in the house Yesterday was about as [XXXXX] as usual, but today is much colder than has been for some time inded this evening may be said to be verry cold.

Tusday 8th.

Father and I sawed with the croscut some Clapboard timber

[Feb 9, 1842 Page 25]

in the forenoon, and in the evening being verry tired I rested some part of the time and had a long conversation with Jeffry [Deraury] who spent the evening with us, it was however not the most profitable, he being a great talker and not a very inteligent man. Day sharply cold and clear.

Wedensday 9th.

In the morning went with Mr. Hamilton to the agents to see a sick man and being pleased with the agents company we staid untill about noon. In the afternoon I [Botled] up some clapboard stuff and am now quite tired. Day Beautiful warm clear & wind South

[Feb 10, 1842 Page 26]

Thursday 10th.

In the morning went to see Jackson who was sick at the agents. I commenced today to split clapboards for the stable but having much to take my time and attention I got only little more than 100 split. In the evening I felt some unwell and quite humble, saw much the vanity of earthly things, and a strong desire to be more free from these things which ware so incumbersome to the soul. Day warm and cloudy

Friday 11

moste of the day was spent with father and Mr. Hamilton trying to make some arrangements about father doing or having

[Feb 12, 1842 Page 27]

done our farming. We also are thinking of lowering our salaries to 300, it being formerly 400. If our farming and such expences are taken off we ought to live on less I have some head ake and some unwell my calculations may with myself ere long be [prostreaited] in the dust But oh to have a resting place in the heavens--. Day cloudy some snow fell and frose a little.

Saturday 12

Part of the Day was spent in spliting clapboards and a part in the day in reading and striveing to prepare for the Sacred Sabath approaching Day very fine rather cool very clear

[Feb 14, 1842 Page 28]



Monday 14

On yesterday we went to the camps a short distance below to hold meeting. The few who attended seemed to show more of an enquireing disposition than is common. It is common for them to give their assent to what is said wheather they understand what is said or not. Their enquiries are at times amuseing. Today one enquired wheather, if some good Ioway should get nearly up to heaven, if thare was any danger of [Plum] falling back again. It was also asked who put the wood on the big fire in hell They show great ignorence but it is pleaseing to see them enquire. In the evening we had preaching in our room from Timothy by Mr. Hamilton. Moste of this day was spent in spliting and hauling some clapboard stuff Tdays ware both remarkable fine indeed the weather is serprseing fine none such.

[Feb 15, 1842 Page 29]

Tusday 15 Feb.

It was my intention to go up to one of the chefs houses to assist a young man in making something like a wagon to haul wood and such things on This is one of the moste persevereing young men on the Ioway nation, and we think if he is properly encouraged, and some inducements put before him he will soon be able to surmount the prejudices which are so deeply [XXXXX] and [XXXXX] with the nature of these heathen. But the day turned out very sormy snowing and blowing and I did not go. Assisted in puting a Botom in a chair and fixed some acounts with Mr. Hamilton and aided him in measuring off a lot of ground for pasture Day [brisy] snowy and not much cold

Feb 16, 1842 Page 30]

Wedensday 16

Soon in the morning went up to old pumpkins to assist his sun in law in makeing a sled. I was surprised to find that he had got out quite a good set of runners, and had sawed off four blocks to make a wagon He shows quite a jenesous and willingness to work. we took the runners home and promised to assist him in finishing it In the evening we had meeting at Mr. Richardsons Mr. Hamilton was not present and I tried to conduct the meeting, talked sometime from the 7th chapter of Math. Had some liberty in prayer. yet the congregation showed but little affected with what was said. It is not fit I am so unworthe that I should see any good resuling from what I might say Day could wind [XXXXX]

[Feb 17, 1842 Page 31]

Thursday 17th.

In the morning Choped some wood and in the afternoon split some Boards the ressidue of the time was spent in reading and Study In the evening a number of young Ioways drest and painted in good stile come rideing up, on their way to the vilage. They ware the Souldiers who ware appointed sometime ago to keep order and chastise the first one who would get drunk we understood that they had flogged one or two we hope the affect may be good but I fear it will not continue Morning cool and high wind east afternoon warm wind south

Friday 18th.

This morning about 3 oclock Mr. [Richeti] came to our door with an express from Maj. Richardson requesting that I and Mr. Campbell would appear in weston this evening at 4 oclock

[Feb 19, 1842 Page 32]

He had taken a man who had stolen an Ioway horse and wished our testamony to convict him of the theft. The distance is about 55 miles and the time verry short. The morning was so dark that we could not see to travel untill brake of day. as soon as we could see we started rode very hard, crosed the Missouri at Roubedeaux left our horses on this side got fresh horses and went on and reached weston a little before sun set. It was moste a sever days wride we got there in time to give in our testamony and made all possible preparations for an early start homewards in the morning. Day generally clear but cool and wind north.

Friday 19th.

Started as soon in the morning as we could get a little refreshment, travelled hard and reached Rubedeaux about 3 oclock. as soon as we could get a little [XXXXX] we started across the river which we found very difficult on account of the ice. got about 6 miles

[Feb 21, 1842 Page 33]

before the sun set and came the rest of the way after night. I was exceedingly tired and [no morsel.] I had traveled about 110 miles in two days. I could scarcely walk But was [XXXXX] with good health. God is wonderful kind but I am still ungrateful miserable Blind and naked How my heart ought to swell to God for his tender mercis and loving kindnesses may I Oh God grow in grace propertion to my opprtunitis Day cloudy and quite could but calm

Monday 21st.

On yesterday I was so tired that I didinot feel able to walk to the Ioway camps to meeting with the Indians I was unussually fatigued At 2 oclock we meet at Mr. Hamiltons for preaching Day moderate Today the moste labour that I did was split some clapboards, and spend some time at preston richardsons. I am much rested and now feel quite well Day warm and mostely clear

[Feb 22, 1842 Page 34]



Tusday 22

Spent part of the day in spliting boards and the rest in study and writing Emploid Monwell to Chop me some wood and we are begining to feal some anxiety about the Agent who has been absent several day beyond the time he should have been at home Day very fine moderat.

Wedensday 23rd.

This morning Father, Mr Pierce and some of the Agents family started down to Mr. Sollarses to get some meal and flour which had been left thare for us and them at this place. Soon after they started Jeffrey Doraway came to our house to have me go over the river with him to assist him in selling his claim of land. I went and spent near all the day As I come back I meet a number of

[Feb 22, 1842 Page 35]

Ioways and Sacks going over for whisky The Ioways have for some time past suspended their drinking. They made a law some time ago that the first one who would get drunk within 20 days should be whiped by proper persons who ware appointed from among their own Braves for that purpose. The time has now expired and they are now to have permission to drink 3 days. They then contemplate suspending all drinking for 30 days and after that for 40 days &c. untill the miserable busines will be ended. This if persevered in may do something we moste sincerely hope it will. Day moderate quite warm warm wind from the south. In the evening we went to Mr. Hamiltons to meeting but he was not at home having went out to the Agents to try to assist in stoping

[Feb 24, 1842 Page 36]

the bleading of a wound Jackson A Quapaw Indian who has been [working] at the Agents unfortunately cut his foot this morning and it still Bleads. I went out to see what detained him but found they had succeeded in stoping the Blood. When we got home it was so late that we had But family worship together Day fine wind south dry and warm

Thirsday 24

Went according to promises to assist Mr. Campell to raise ahouse But he not being fully ready we put it off. And I spent moste of the day that remained in spliting Clapboards In the evening Father came home having left the wagons several miles behind. Day exceeding warm high wind from the South ground thawing geese flying Days clear nights slight frost.

[Feb 25, 1842 Page 37]

Friday 25

Spent this day mostely in spliting clapboards. Jeffry Doraway come in the afternoon and spent some time in chat supper and spent a part of the evening at Mr Hamiltons. In the evening father and Mr Pierce came home from the River with some flour and meal Late and very sleepy Day very cloudy and appars much like rain. In the evening some snow fell

Saturday 26th.

In the morning went to see if Mr Campbell intend to raise, did not. I went then to assist father in grindeing the axes. In the evening was sent for to go and Blead the Agent who has just returned and is quite ill Morning gloomy afternoon warm & clear

[Feb 28, 1842 Page 38]



Monday 28

On yesterday we went with nancy down to the Indian camps, and got a few men together who gave rather better attention than is usual. They showed some disposition to enquire when they did not understand. They usually give their assent wheather they understand or no, but today when anything was spoken if it was not well understood they would immediately enquire which is very encourageing. In the afternoon had preaching in our room. spent the evening in reading [hunted] and the usual time spent in [XXXXX] the children Day very warm [XXXXX] and some dandy after night some thunder and rain

Today I spent moste of the time at the agents at a council with the Indians Day warm and mostely cloudy.

Tusday March 1st.

Assisted Mr. Campell in puteing up a dwelling house. He is a trader that has been among the

[Mar 1, 1842 Page 39]

Indians for more than 20 years. He has scoured much of the region west of the mountains particularly towards California He describes that county as being verry poor. unfruitful sandy and mostly Barren furnishing but little vegetation and consequently but few animals, scarcely anything but rabits are found thare. He also states that thare are immence groves of white pine in the valeys of the R. Mountains. May we not easily imagine in these days of enterprise and improvement, the day to be near at hand when this lumber shall be driven like the wind over these planes with [steem] cars and the west rending habitable from this now appearently Barren and nearly unexplored regions Day very soft and warm but Cloudy The froste appears to be comeing very fast out of the ground

[Mar 2, 1842 Page 30]

Wedensday 2nd.

The moste work that I done a [XXXXX for the stable I am about building In the evening was compeld to go and work hard to stop fire in the prairie which was about our fences. After dark we ware on our way to meeting at the Agency and had to stop again and extinguish the fire which was at the loss of considerable swet. Day warm and some cloudy wind south.

Thirsday 3

Split Clapboards [XXXXX[ and on examination it was found that the green flies ware threatening our meet I took it down and put it away. It is wonderful how abundent the flies are at this season of the year The day

[Mar 4, 1842 Page 31]

was nearly as warm as in june and a high wind from the South

Friday 4th.

Spent some part of the day in conversation with a young man who has come to our station, who has it in contemplation to go alone among the pawnees with a view of trying to instil the gosple among them. He contemplates going entirely alone and upon his own resources, without much education and in poor health. It seems one of the strongest enterprises that I have every seen or heard off. Mr. H. and I have done what we could to give him correct information and disswade him from his strong and novel plan. split some Boards and in the evening went with some of the [XXXXX[ to the agents to interpret some for them saw Miss Richardson the Agents [XXXXX[ who has just come [town[, day cloudy and cool

[Mar 5, 1842 Page 32]

Saturday 5th.

What labour was done to day was at puteing up eve troughs to the house and smokehouse mainly for the purpose of collecting rain water for washing Our spring water is hard to wash with and to make soap and it is the part of wisdom to collect as much water in this way as possible. Time flies on rapid wings Another week is gone by and has left but little of anything behind it for me and the reason is because I have not made the best use of my time that I ought. I believe that I am getting more and lazey, and indolent in doing those things that I ought. I am wonderfully anoid with temptations of various kinds like [XXX[olly] temptations of a worldly nature They seem to have wonderful success in my mind. May the Lord rid me More and more from them. Day cloudy and cool - Some snow fell.

[Mar 7, 1842 Page 33]



Monday 7th.

On yesterday I stayd at home and Mr. Hamilton and Father went to meeting with the Indians, but had poor success. They ware disposed to laugh and make sport particularly of Nancy our interpreter, they did so bad that she became discouraged and would not or rather could not interpret. In the afternoon we had preaching at Mr. Hamiltons and in the evening meet for monthly consort. I had more freedom and enjoyment in prayer than is usual I would bless and magnify the Lord for this and all his tender mercies. Today. What work I did was hueing Today the Ioways came up to dance for the Agent, and asked permission to dance at our house but I told them that I

[Mar 8, 1842 Page 34]

did not wish it, but would give them some potatoes if they would pass us by, they readily agree to it and so with but little delay passed on Both days Beautiful and nearly clear. Especially today. Night before last some snow fell but soon disappeared.

Tusday 8th.

Assisted Battess Roy to raise a house and hands being scarce we ware under the necessity of working verry hard harder than was ought. When I came home I was verry tired and lay dow a spell to rest. I found that I had taken something like a cold and was sore all over towards Supper I was taken with a fit of the hiccougs. which continued with more or less violence until bed time. I became quite horse and felt more and more unwell. My lesure hours was taken up with reading the life of Brainerd Excellent memoix oth that thare ware many more such Day warm very high S. wind

[Mar 9, 1842 Page 35]



Wedensday 9th.

Was quite ill all day. did but little but read and study all day and in fact did but little at that. I think that I hurt myself on yesterday at the rasing and last evening I took some medacine but did not do much good. I have had many serous thoughts about our mission. It seems to move along so lowly if inded it goes along at tall. Is it not going Back? Is thare not more consearn about the world than about the Indians? I fear that the great day will confound maney, if sins are not repented off Day cool and high wind in the south

Thirsday 10

Spent the day in the house. felt considerable deadness to the word. Saw something of the vanity of earthly things and the sinfulness of striggling after them Day cool and cloudy wind north.

[Mar 11, 1842 Page 36]

Friday 11th.

Worked hard all day at hueing &c. in preparation for building my new stable. I am heartily tired of labour and the bustle of the world. I hope the time is not far off when I can devote my time more fully to my work. Having the hands in the word tends strongly I find to lead the mind thare too. Day clear generally but cold and something of a circle wind the [XXXXX] It is now coulder than some part of january

Saturday 12th.

Spent all this day in hard labour at the foundation of my barn was extremely tired. Some pain in my brest feverish and quite unwell. I am no doubt making improvements for the benefit of some othrse Day fine clear but rather cool

[Mar 13, 1842 Page 37]

Sabath 13th

Mr. H. and I went with nancy to the Indian encampment, could not get maney together and those who ware present soon got weary of the exercises and went away and even those who remained seemed to have but an imperfect understanding of what was sade. It will surely be a long time at this rate before the por Ioways can be brought in to a knowledge of sacred things. They are emfatically slow to learn. In the evening we had preaching at our house a goodly number attended and gave good attention It is pleasing to have some whites attend and show some interest in religious things All souls are of vast importance in the sight of god and the least consearn is encourageing in this respect. Today I was quite unwell and [stray] symptoms of my old [XXXXX] complaint

[Mar 14, 1842 Page 38]

God has for a long time given me an unusual amount of good health. But it has been shamefully improved. I wraped myself too much in the world and its consearns and in this way [XXXXX] my tallent in the earth Or I am like a barren fig tree, and I have great and good reason to fear that the sentance may soon go out against me as it did against it. I may soon wither away the Axe may be already lade at the root of the tree. I bless god for afflictions or anything which may tend to humble me and bring me to my right mind. I cannot expect to be here verry long time is carreying me along with amaseing rapidity. Oh that I may improve the precious time as it goes by. Day cloudy and some moderate.

Monday 14

This morning Father started to

[Mar 15, 1842 Page 39]

the river for some flour which is to be thare for us. I spent some of the morning with the Agent and notched down some logs on my building. In the evening assisted Mr. Preston Richardson to lay out his field for the sac farm Day moste beautiful warm and clear

Tusday 15th

Continued to work at the Barn In the evening Father came home with five barrels of flour. I am wonderfully favoured with easy supplies of provisions especially this winter and fall. I ought to be more entirely devoted to the [XXXXX] of that being who so richly provides for my wants The day was warm and beautiful beyond discription

Wedensday 16th.

Laboured as much as I was able at the Stable. But from a pain in my breast and other inability I was not able to accomplish much

[Mar 17, 1842 Page 40]

The pain in my Breast seems to be increasing should it grow much worse I cannot do much if aney thy thing atall. I think thare in my case strong Symptoms of consumption and it may have a much deeper hold than I am aware. I have been long consearned about my Building purphaps more than I ought. The house which is in readinss in the heavens does not consearn me as much as I ought. But I am hurried aloud in the noise and hurry of businss and doubtless before I am aware will be at my journeys end How poor and [Blesd] is erring man. Improveing him as if he was to remain here forever. Day moste beautiful clear and warm & wind

Thursday 17th.

Spent moste of the day in workeing on the building which I am about puteing up. It is wonderful how my time runs to waste And Oh ``my sins how great

[Mar 18, 1842 Page 41]

their sum. But I bless god and would take encouragement that I have any sight of my condition befor god. God is all merciful all wise and good. Day fine beyond discription.

Friday 18th.

Spent this day in reding up the rooms and in making preparations for father and mother for living by themselves. Our family is so large that we have thought best to separate, but it may be that we will go together again before long. One thing is gratifying we will be very near, nearly the same as one family. Today and especially this evening I have suffered very much with a pain in my brest. strong symptoms of my old Brest complant. God for some time past has give me a great amount of good health more than I have had for a long time together, and it has been poorly employed may the Lord forgive and enable me to reform Day very fine as warm as august. It is oppressive [indeed] [geese] and frogs are hollering loud.

[Mar 19, 1842 Page 42]

Saturday 19th.

What work I did today was at the Barn. I am growing exceedingly tired of this work. I wish moste severely that it was all over. Had I known the labour that was necessary I doubt that I would have undertaken it. My time is so fast runing to waste that I know not what to do. I fear my little thread will be spun before I am aware and I will not be ready for leaving this for another world My God in infinite mercy pity and pardon me for all my transgrations and sins Another week is at a close. Its closings are recorded and the reccord cannot be revoked What is rong must if not repented of remain untill the final day when all things will be clearly infolded. and ever doing receive the just recompense of reward. My Brest is still panful. I cannot see that it is much if any better It seems deep seated

[Mar 19, 1842 Page 43]

and may thare gnaw like a canker until my life is Spent. May I make a wise improvement of time. I never was so comefortabilly situated for retirement and meditation. I have a room entirely to myself where thare is no noise nor distubence In which I have a nice little libray of more than a 100 volums of fine matter. I hope that the consearn of my farming and secular busins will soon be taken off my hand, and I cannot see what will hinder me form making a profitable use of my precious time. My family do not use the room in which I study and consequently I am not by them disturbed. But I must remember I must not live too much secluded. I owe duties to them above all others and a faithful discharge of these duties or will calculate to fit me for, and encourage me in other duties which I owe. Day wonderful fine very warm strong south wind [&c]

[Mar 21, 1842 Page 44]



Monday 21st.

Time will not allow me to write much. On yesterday I remained at home Father and Mr. Hamilton went to the vilage but had not much success. We had preaching at Mr. Hamiltons in the afternoon Day very warm & dry. In the evening some apparences of rain at a distance

Today I worked anearly all day at the Building Day very fine but a little cool.

Tusday 22

Worked all day at my stable and as usual it is late and I am verry tird. I find my mind wonderfully engrosed about my worldly matters. It seems that the heart is affected with what the hands handle. It is wonderfully sow in the present case. My improvements come into my mind on all occasions especially when I would pray

[Mar 23, 1842 Page 45]

or think of anything serious. Some new plan or calculation will spring up in my mind and present itself as being far superous to all others and it then would urge the necessity of being investigated and I fool away much of my precious time, in planing and replaning things which but illy becomes my profession. I still however look for better times a time not far distent when I will give all this up into other hands and be enabled to devote more of my time to that which is my abundent duty which may God grant and to his name be the praise Day very fine extremely warm for the time in the year a rain and thunder cloud pased near but we recd none

Wedensday 23rd.

Raised my stable or rather Barn today. had a number of hands probably 15 Worked quite hard, and in the evening was quite

[Mar 24, 1842 Page 46]

worne out. suffered much from a pain in my Breast and Back. So much so that I cannot rest well. Day very fine

Thusday 24th.

Done what I was able at my Barn commenced to put on the roof But the Wind blew so high that I could not do much. I think I never saw a day of higher wind Trees were thrown down in all directions. The fire got into the timber near us and I was affrad that our Buildings would be distroyed. It took the moste vigilent care on our part to prevent it Every thing seems perfectly dry and we are in great danger But God mercifilly preserved us and suffered ``no harm to come near our dwelling'' How merciful is his hand and how watchful is his eye nothing can escape his notise. How fine is the

[Mar 27, 1842 Page 47]

foundation of the Christian? Those whom God protects is abundently safe. It is a moste happy thought to be under the protection of such a being But dreadful to be under his frowns Day Dry but moste wonderful windy from the south and west.

Friday 25th.

Continued to work as I was able at the [covery] of the house. severe pain in my breast and Back. My live must be affected I pray God that it may work in me the peaseable frutes of righteousness Day very fine dry and warm.

Saturday 26

Was so unwell that I didnot pretend atall to work The pain my my brest and Back is increasing. I went on some busines to the Agents went to see the new Ioway vilage spent some time in walking and meditation but the

[Mar 31, 1842 Page 48]

Devul is wonderful busy puting vain and worldly thoughts in to my mind, though I am walking on the verge of the grave and may in a day or two fall in. still he would make me think much about the world, [now] more foolish in deed May I be [more use]?. Day exceedingly fine

Thusday 31st.

Several things have prevented me from writing regularly in my diary. What labour I have done since the last date has been at the Barn, and my study reading and writing has been misselaneous. On Sabath Mr. Hamilton didnot go to the vilage Mrs H. being ill I went with nancy and Mother. We had but few. but the few gave as good attention as usual. After I had talked some time one enquired if I was amoste done, saying that he was in a hurry that a number of them ware agoing to hunt.

[Mar 31, 1842 Page 49]

and they wished to be off soon. On my way I saw at some distance a french man makeing rails for one of the french traders who is settled near. I was two far away to speak with him It is wonderful how the sabath is disregarded by these and many other classes of people How can we induch the Indians to understand the importance of such an observation while these things are practiced so extensively under the eyes The people seems to be give up to [momman].

[Apr 1, 1842 Page 50]

Friday April 1st. 1842

Wrought some at the Barn took or had taken up a number of potatoes &c. Was much wrought in mind about the improvements I am makeing and the conveniences which I am geting about me. They are I think too good I am no doubt takeing too much panes about these things in a sinful manner neglecting things of greatter importence, indeed sometimes to leave all and go where my temporal enjoyments will be less may spiritual enjoyments more But without prayer zeal and selfdenial these things are not at all attaneble. The weather is moste remarkable for heat and drouth. This day is very warm and dry with strong south wind. which is but common

[Apr 2, 1842 Page 51]

April 2nd Saturday

Spent part of the day in work at the stable. and aided Mr. H. in laying out his field. I think that my labour for the comeing summer is nearly at a close. in fact it must be. I see much that ought to be done and seems to require being done immediately. But it will not do. I have already spent too much time and the Devil would perswade me to spend all in this way. but it will not do. The more I fix and do in this world the less preparations I will have for the next and the more attached to this and hense I conclude that it is better to be more free from this and deeper interrested in the next. which may God grant. for I find that of my self I can do nothing. my resolutions will fail This morning we had a fine shower the first of any account this spring. day cloudy and appearence of more rain

[Apr 11, 1842 Page 52]

April 11th. Monday

Since the last date I have been prevented from writing regularly in my diary The forepart of last week was spent in working what leisure time I had at the stable. On wedensday morning I started to the platt country on some busines and partly to see my particular friend Dr. Smith who Live in Buchanan Co. On wedensday evening I reached Mr. Ballards and spent a pleasant evening soon after I crossed the Missouri River I was overtaken with a severe rain which continued almost untill sun set and rendered the travelling quite tedious and slavish I reached my friend Mr. Ballards house alittle before sun set and was well recd and entertained through the night. We didnot go to rest soon having been separatd for a long time and much talking to do The day following I went to Mr. Dixons

[Apr 11, 1842 Page 53]

Mill and store where I had some business and where I took breakfast. Mr. Gillmore was sick and I visited him. He was verry low and was anxious that I should remain with him but my businss was urgent and I went back to Mr Ballards, and what was some singular while I was thare Mr. Dixons wife (who is Mr. Ballards adopted daughter and who was there staying & was delivered of a very fine sun. I started soon as possible on my way made about 8 miles and stoped with my kind friend Capt. Hanson. The day following I [XXXXX[ on stoped at Savannah for dinner [precured] some goods and reach my Dear friends Dr. Smith. The day following (Saturday) I started early for home by the point, left my horse at Mr. Hans and with about 3 hours labour Succeded in crossing the Missouri in a canoe and got home.

[Apr 11, 1842 Page 54]

The Sabath we went to the vilage but meet with but a poor reception. They ware not disposed to here and much inclined to find fault. Said we ware the means of killing the children &c. &c. We had in fact no meeting. Came away cast down and discouraged. But God works in his own ways we may meet with shock opposition before much is done. Today I went to see the Indians with a view of commencing to teach, but father Being sick I had to do a little for him on the farm. There seems to be more than an ordinary coolness in the Indians towards the missionaries But our ways are not Gods ways. ``He works in a mysterious way his wonders to perform.'' Thare has not been any rain since the last date Except what was notised in the first day The weather is verry warm and

[Apr 12, 1842 Page 55]

vegetation is comeing on verry fast. Things must be at least 2 weeks farther forward than is usual at his season

Tusday 12th.

Soon after breakfast this morning started to the vilage and found moste of the men engaged in playing cards, the Children were mostely away and but little oppertunity of having school and but little appeerent disposition on the part of the people to have their Children tauguht. One old man told me that I had better not go by [Hiwathoches] vilage. That [Moonkorackingas] child was dead, and he had said that he would kill A whiteman, and he was affrade that he might fall upon me. He said the Ioways ware dying off any how, and he would kill [a] whiteman and then the Ioways would be kiled off quick which would be verry good. Danger seems to stand around us But we would trust the Lord Day cloudy but warm

[Apr 13, 1842 Page 56]

Wedensday 13

Went again to the vilage and to the chefs houses, found some of the children at the chefs houses who ware verry willing to be taught and who had not forgoten as much as I was affrade they would through the Long winter. I assisted some in starting the plough at whiteclouds furrow out some ground for them to plant potatoes on The show rather an unusual disposition to work which is verry encourageing. In the evening we went to meeting at Mr Richardsons. A number ware present. But I was rather cool. Infact I must confess that this is two much my prevailing feeling Day fine but rather Cool

Thusday 14

Contined my visits to the chiefs

[Apr 15, 1842 Page 57]

houses assisted them in plouging furing out planting &c. Taught some and put up some fense. Industry must go hand in hand with the gosple and hense it is importent to encourage every appearence of this sort. Day cool a light sprinkle of rane

Friday 15

Went to the chefs houses but ware told that many in the vilage ware drunk that one man had been stabed in the back and he was dangerously wounded. Taught at the houses but didnot go to the vilage Day fine cool wind [east]

Saturday 16

Went over the river on some busins. Was delayd at the river and didnot find time to teach. Appearence of rain cool and wind north.

[Apr 18, 1842 Page 58]

Monday 18th

On yesterday we went to the vilage Hiwathoches, and was favoured with considerable of an audience, a goodly number came it men woman and children and paid quite respectful attention at least we call it so, we are so used to seeing misconduct that we have become harded under it, or unto it, and a little attention seems very much. Had preaching at Mr Hamiltons in the afternoon. Day fine Today I went to the vilage [collecte] a few schollars but many of them had gone to their fields withe their parents and the villages being divided it is difficult to get many at one place. Day very fine, the weather is remarkable dry. The ground in a very dry state for ploughing.

Tusday 19 Went to the village and

[Apr 20, 1842 Page 59]

as I came in view I saw one man who was evidently drunk. He said he was from the other village, and that they ware very drunk thare. I collected a few schollars but they soon disperced by the approach of a drunken Indian I continued but a short time finding that many ware drunk and more ware expected and while is this way but little can be done. I went home and assisted in doing some work. Evening cool But days fine clear and dry.

Wedensday 20th.

About eleven oclock started to the vilage. meet two Boys in the woods who sade a lesson quite well and ware verry attentive. Went on and was told by a friend that the Ioways who had been on a visit to the Mississippi had

[Apr 20, 1842 Page 60]

returned, and ware near to the village and nearly all ware drunk, and thought it was best for me to go home as I could not teach any while they ware drunk and my heart would be sorry to see them Is foolish I started and was son overtaken by some who ware going to the village neardest to us. The second one who pased me, on seeing me seting down by the way, gave out a yell and said he was angry that he was a brave &c. and tried to sware in english. He whiped up his horse towards me waveing his tomahawk round his head and repeating that he was a great Brave. I thought it best to rise to my feet and be ready for him. When he saw I showed no signs of fear he commenced to laugh and sade he was in fun

[Apr 20, 1842 Page 61]

Had I shown any signs of fear It would no doubt have been much worse for me I suppose he would have run me to death if he could. I went on some distance farther and saw a large no. more comeing on another way. I waited again until a number went past, but was not interrupted by any of them though many of them ware on the way drunk. It is moste afflicting to see the condition of those poor creatures. They seem to rush headlong to destruction But God works in his own way and we must be still. Had meeting at Mr. Hamiltons in the evening had some freedom and earnestness in prayer and god seemed in some degred to fill my mouth with arguments. Day warm clear and high South wind

[Apr 21, 1842 Page 62]

Thusday 21st.

On going to the near vilage I found that moste of the Schollars ware gon with their people to the fields and consequently got but few Schollars. I was repeatedly told that at the other village they near all drunk and that at the near village thare would soon be a quantity which would stop all operations of the nature of teaching I soon took my way home Assisted some in making a road to the village and [XXXXX] and I hauld several loads of wood to our door and I spent some time in the Study Day verry warm and high wind from the South.

Friday 22nd.

Found the people of the vilage sober and was enable to collect a goodly number together and teach. I went on towards the upper villag and when near I heard the puffing of a steam Boat, and I thought it best to return and left

[Apr 23, 1842 Page 63]

Mrs Richardson know the fact that if she though best she migh send up as the Agent was expected daily and especially on the first Boat. I visited both as I went and come the poor sick man who was stated a few days ago He is very Bad. I think dangerous. It is solem to look at the poor Ignorent mortal perhaps on the brink of the grave without hope. Before day this morning we had a fine shower with heavy thunder day warm cloudy and appearence of rain

Saturday 23rd.

Today started soon to the vilage and for accommodation to the farmer I concented to drive the oxe wagon with some potatoes to be distributed among the people of the village. In the evening I took a load of potatoes to neumongas village. when I went thare I found that [Eurohocha]

[Apr 23, 1842 Page 64]

(the unfortunate Ioway who was stabed a few days ago in a drunken revel) was dead. Great Comentation was being made about his corpse. Just as we ware comeing away a number of squaws and some men came from the other vilage to wale for him. Thare was I think 9 or 10 of the squaws drunk and ware makeing an outlandish and alarmeing noise. They appeared to be really sorry but all was superficial and pretince Two had gon to dig a grave for him. This is the first death at this vilage and it was caused through drunkenness How strange that man cannot learn wisdome when it is offered at so dear a price If they could be prevailed upon to quit drink and commence industry how soon might they be a happy and fine people. Many strong temptations and deep compunction of conscience

[Apr 25, 1842 Page 65]

particularly in relation to the improvement of time. Time slips away with wonderful rapidity and I am gliding along to the toom when I must [ear long] hand my fraid and foundering Book. Day remarkable fine clear warm & high wind S.

Monday 25

On yesterday Mr. Hamilton and I went up to the for vilage and meet with a number of Indians for worship they behaved quite well a goodly number attended and gave good attention for a time, but as usual many soon got tired and went out. Had preaching in the evening at our house. on our way from the vilage we saw signs of rain and it came up soon after we got home Had a fine rain warm and evening clear

[Apr 26, 1842 Page 66]

Today, the Agent who has been at St. Louis gave me a call and remained untill I went to the vilage. I got several at the village [necar] 20 who did well In the afternoon I red and wrote some and in the evening [XXXXX] the yard for grass seed --. Day dandy and cool wind N. W.

Tusday 26th

Drove the wagon with some potatoes to wachamongas. and did intend to teach some but about the time I was starting to the village a drunken Indian come along in full spread and I concluded thare would be but little oppertunity of doing much. In the evening I reviewed some of my old writings I find them profitable It does appear that I am going Back. The Lord pity me and send deliverence Day clear and cool.

[Apr 27, 1842 Page 67]

Wedensday 27th April

Visited both villages and had a considerable number of Schollars in each who payd good attention. I visited moonhackshinga who was stated a few days ago in a drunken revel. He complained of pain and a great aversion to indureing it said it would have been good if he had been killd on the spot, and not left to endure so much pain. Day fine

Thirsday 28

Today my family was so sick that I thought it best to remain at home. Eliot our little boy was verry bad with something of a fever. Last night was the moste restless and severe night that I think I never seen him put in a night of pain and sickness He vomited moste severely and repeatedly. Mrs. I. was also verry unwell and knows not when she may be much worse. Mother is also quite ill and all considered I concluded to stay at home.

[Apr 29, 1842 Page 68]

Spent moste of the time in the house at reading &c. Day quite warm dry and fine

Friday 29th

Went to Both villages and had a good number of Schollars who paid quite good attention. On my way home near to the village I was meet by Capt John or chatonia an Ioway Brave who was quite drunk. He came out of his way some distance to meet me He was much inclined to talk and to detain me longer than I wish. I told him I was in a hurry and wanted to be going. He [insisting] my stoping but I could not well indure his Bad talk. I started on my way. He rode before me I went round him and pushd on he again and again rode before me but I persued my course. He grew angry and pretended to try to whipe me with his Horse whip I kept him off his Horse being

[Apr 29, 1842 Page 69]

affrade of my [cane.] He finally got off his Horse and came towards me I stoped and as he came up I caught his hands and made him sit down and we talked untill he got in a good humour. I got him again on his Horse and started him towards the village after going some distance He return and overtook me again, said he wanted to talk I told him to alite and we would go to a shade and sit down He did so and we had a long talk sometimes he seemed angry and sometimes not. sometimes he would try to sware and talk obsene in english and abuse me and sometimes he would appear very good humoured and say I was verry good &c. I finally got him on his horse and he starte for the village and

[Apr 30, 1842 Page 70]

I starte homewards after I had gone some distance he calld to me and ``sade goodby'' They are wonderful troublesome creatures when drunk, and infact dangerous. It is hard to know when they will do mischief even to ther best friends. But god governs the hearts of the heathen as well as all others and we should rejoice and trust in him Day fine though some appearence of rain

Saturday 30th.

went to both villages and found all sober and in a good humour moste of the children ware absent but at such times it gives those who do attend a better oppertunity of learning Some sign of rain But none yet the ground appears very dry [warmth for good planting]

[May 2, 1842 Page 71]

Monday 2 May

on yesterday we had no meeting at the village. Having no interpreter and Mr. Hamilton not [XXXXX] any [talk] wrote. In the afternoon we had preaching and consort at Mr. H.s room. Today it was with some difficulty I got to the village having so much to do. I did go but having forgot my Books I didnot teach I held a number purhaps five or six a number or sick more so than I think is common at this season of the year. Today we recd 3 letters from Pa. All our friends are in usual health. Thanks to god Morning warm afternoon could wind north.

[May 7, 1842 Page 72]

Saturday 7th.

I have been huried along through this week, and so porly managed my busines that I have not wrote in my journal aney since monday. One cause of my neglect was that Mrs. I. was sick some part of the time Mrs. Hamilton has been confined and had a [XXXXX] [XXXXX] on Thursday night. About the middle of the week I recd a number of letters from friends in the east and some papers which took up much of my time. I am affrade that I am making a verry poor use of time it seems that I never was so well favoured externally for study and mental employment and I am not shure that I ever done less I let my mind wander wonderfully, and it so leads me about that I loss much time. I must try and make out some sistem for the employment of my time which will be more advantageous, which when I do may God grant to enable me to fill

[May 7, 1842 Page 73]

But to return to the ocurrences of the week. I have been attending the village regularly, and found a number of the Schollars sick in each day Some days I was not able to go to both villages but always went to the one next to us. On yesterday as I was going on my way to the village I met a large no. of the Boys many of whom ware my Schollars they sade they ware going on a war party they ware equiped in warlike stiles and had on his back the medicine [leag], and they ware quite in a good humour. I proposed they they should say a lesson to this they readly agreed and we took our seet in a shade near the edge of the prairie After performing for a time the usual exercises of the school I went on to the village and they went on their way on my way home I met the same party returning in all the tryumphs of war. They said they had kill and scalpt an Indian that they had been verry brave &c. they had the likeness of a scalp suspended on a plole the customay made of returning from war. They ware singing and dancing, whopping and hollowing in war like stile. This was a war party in

[May 9, 1842 Page 74]

miniature. They seemed to enter quite into a morteal spirit and ware much pleased with what they had done. Here we may see heathenism in the bud. In thear fallse and wicked amusement the children meet with the moste cordial approbation of ther parents. They can perform but few things which will be more interesting to the parents. Such as the father so will be the sons. The Heir of Civilization and refinement does not engage in building playhouses or [XXXXndeling] a toy than these do, in their miniature performence of what they see from their parents. -- The week has been uniformly warm and dry

Monday 9th

On yesterday no one went to the village. I could not well leave home neither could Mr Hamilton. We meet in our room A sermon. Today Mrs. I. and Eliot ware so ill that I did not think it prudent to leave home Wind South Dry and warm

[May 10, 1842 Page 75]

Tusday 10th.

Went to the village on a double errand to teach and search for a [feter] which had been stolen by an Indian but in the latter was not successful. They Indians all seem to have the faculty of denying well It is difficult to get stolen property except you promise a larger reward than the loste article is worth, and this every one will say is two expensive Day warm & Dry

Wedensday 11

aas quite unwell. Scarcely able to walk to the village but did go to the near one, and got a number of schollars who behaved well. This is the evening of meeting at Mr. Richardsons, but I thought I was not well enough to go, and beside Mrs. I. was not well. Poor sickly dying mortal who will not be here very long. Day fine

[May 12, 1842 Page 76]

Thirsday 12

Assisted all the time I had to spare in planting corne. Went late to the village and returned as soon as I could had several schollars who learn well Thare was much appearence of rain but none fell. In the evening a high wind blew up from the north and became quite cold

Friday 13

Had but few Schollars at the school They are much away at their corne fields, and so loose much of their precious time. If they could be collected regularly and retained aney desirable length of time they might and [XXXXX] would learn verry fast. But as they now proceed it is very difficult for them to learn attall. But somethings seem favourable and we hope it will terminate in much favourable and good. Day cool and cloudy But no rain

[May 14, 1842 Page 77]

Saturday 14

On yesterday Maj. Richardson requested me to attend a council with the Ioways and Sacks at the new Schoolhouse today. I went but oweing to the absence of some of the chefs the council was defered untill monday. I spent part of the day in writing and in doing some little work about the house Day dry and warm

Monday 16th

On yesterday Father took it of choise to go to the village And I stayed at home spent moste of the time in reading mostly the Bible and some exposition of it, have been wonderfully delighted and I hope edified in reviewing the history of Moses as given in the [five] first Book of the old testament writen by himself What purity and meekness, humility and love

[May 17, 1842 Page 78]

In the afternoon meet at Mr. Hamiltons for preaching. Today I went to the Schoolhouse in the prairie having understood that the Ioways and Sax ware to have a council and I was wished present. Now come I understood that they ware drunk. I went to the village to teach found a few schollars but maney ware absent. What a pity so little time to do anything and so little doing It is afflicting to see so little doing and so much carelessness on the Subject Days warm and very dry

Tusday 17th.

Started soon to the village just as I got thare, Word came that I was wished at the council and I got a horse and went as soon as I could The Sacks and Ioways entered into council together. It was one of the moste unpleasant and painful councils that I ever

[May 17, 1842 Page 79]

attended. Great jealousy existes especially between too of the Chiefs Whitecloud and [neumonya]. Thare is scarcely aney friendly feeling among them but much of the reverce. They become much and easily excited and do not abash to tell clear lies on each other. Some ware on the point of leaving the council in anger and some did leave before they ware done It is a moste unhappy state of things, and I am affrade will grow worse I have understood that these two chiefs ware a few days ago on the point of fighting They ware so far as to have their knives drawn and that when duly sober This is alarming But God may and doubtless will rool it fer good But the present is a dark time on all hands poor Ioways when will they be sober and have the spirit of the gosple Morning cloudy and looks for rain evening clear

[May 18, 1842 Page 80]

Wedensday 18th

Last evening Pumpkin a very old and infirm cheif of the Iowas came to spend the night with us. This morning he wished me to take the wagon and haul him home as he was so infirm as not to be able to walk except with great pain and difficulty. I consented with pleasure and after some fixing we got started. I was surprised to see how infirm he was I had to help him in and out of the wagon and even the joulting of the wagon seemed to pain him verry much. I did esteem it a pleasure thus to wait on the old man I may never have the oppertunity again of doing the old man [offise] of kindness again. He, to be [XXXXX] is and a heathen more But he is old and stricken in years, and if God has so cond taken care of him ought not I lend my aid to do something for the old man

[May 19, 1842 Page 81]

This was the evening of meeting. We attended to it before night. on the way I felt cold and bad. But at meeting I had more freedom and [calledidness] in prayer than common. I am a wonderful poor and ignorant worm of the dust and shamefully willing to remain so Today we had a fine shower. It commenced about day brake and was moderate. the first rain for some time.

Thirsday 19th.

Made what haste I could in going to the vilage on account of Mrs Irvin being ill when I left and She thought it probable that She might soon be worse I went only to the near village and came back as soon as I could. In the evening I went to the Agency and Smith Shop

[May 20, 1842 Page 82]

with Mr. Neumonya who had some business with the Agent.

Friday 20th.

Just as I was geting up this morning Mr. Keck came in and told me that he had lost all his clothes on yesterday, the Indian boys having stolen them and he wished me to assist him in getting them back after breakfast we started and with some enjury got on the track. Through the aid and [firmness] of Mrs Doraway we got the clothes safe and sound. The Boys had stolen them away and hid them in the woods in a large tree top, where when one of the boy who was along conducted us with some reluctence I couldnot but admire the firmness and vigilence of the Old lady

Yesterday and today are both [XXXXX] and gloomy fine growing time and Idle looks lik rain

[July,1842 Page 131]

to the corn fields and Some for plumbs &c. I started up to the far village but when I got to the little creek I meet Nahoocheninga who told me they ware so drunk at the village that he was affrade and had come away, and so advised me not to go any farther while we ware siting talking he sudently started up and said he herd them comeing and said we had best go into the Bushes. we did so but heard no more of them he said that they had fallen from their horses and would not come on. I then returned with him to the old or near village. In the Evening we meet at Mr. Hamiltons to pey for the Oppresser and the Oppresed Had some earnest feelings for the poor slave. But I fer they are too trancient existing mainly during meeting or conversation on the Subject. Surely they are to be pitied Great appearance of rain But none has yet fell.

[July 26, 1842 Page 132]

Tusday 26th

Went to both villages and had in all 32 Schollars. They are now spreading about to there corne fields for the purpose of making sweet corn this will take maney of the Schollars out of my reach and will be a draw back to my labour poor ignorent mortals when will the learn wisdom and become settled and sober! Great appearance of rain heavy clouds in every direction But no rain fell

Wedensday 27th.

Went to the village and had thirty one Schollars some of them are doing well I did not go to the far village because it was late and because I found moste of the Schollars from thare at this near village

This morning thare was a beautiful shower while we ware at breakfast and another in the evening It was moste refreshing

[July 28, 1842 Page 132b]

Thirsday 28th.

This morning was prevented from going to the village by a moste delightful shower of rain which commenced soon after sun rise and continued untill near noon It was one of Gods moste rich earthly gifts as it thus seemed the drouth has been great inded. The Shower was remarkable for its calmness and warmth no wind and but little thunder all nature seems to rejoice May [en dratitud] be paid to God for his temporal blessings. Went to the village but found few children A Steam Boat had gon up to the point and moste had gon thare for weather see above

Friday 29th

At school and had a goodly no of Schollars. One of the Schollars Pawnee comes regularly to the house to be taught. He is the moste promising Boy in point of intellect that I know in the village and if he had a good

[July 30, 1842 Page 133]

chance he no doubt if spard and with the Blessing of God would make a useful man fine rain Beautiful growing weather How kind is providence in providing for all our wants and in this particular in making such ample provisions for our food

Saturday 30th.

All week I have been in doubts about going over the river to a Sacramental meeting which was Appointed on the other side of the River. I was still wavering but concluded to go with father at least as far as the river leaving it with the favourable circumstances to determine wheather I would go on or not. At the River I found things favourable and accordingly went on It was about 8 miles and we got to the place just as the minister was closing his remarks. In the evening we had meeting at a neighbouring house and Mr. Carsin (the minister) calld on me to make some remarks with which I reluctantly complied. I was [XXXXX] favored now

[Aug 1, 1842 Page 134]

In freedom of Speech that I thought probably I would be may I Bless God for his kindness and tender mercies. After meting I went to Mr. Templetons to spend the night. Day cloudy but dry and evening very cool wind N.

Monday Aug 1st.

Have just returned from the meeting on the other Side of the River God has ben wonderfully kind. He has displayd his loving kindness and his tender mercies. How excellent in all the earth is his name Yesterday was a day spent in the Courts of the Lord But Oh I was it acceptable and to his honour and glory after the elements was distributed Mr. Carsin earnestly solicited that I should make some remarks which I strove to do and in which I found some freedom and pleasure. In the evening at 5 we meet at the same place and the Burden of the remarks fell upon me at this time I had more than ordinary freedom of Speech. Today I returnd home with maney serious thoughts and some what of an unsettled mind. Mr. Carsin insists that I am qualified for

[Aug 1, 1842 Page 135]

being more extensively useful thare what I am in my present situation declares that he thinks I might with propriety be licenced to preach. This is a calling and [duty] for which I have a thousand times wished that I was qualified It seems to be my duty then to do ware I qualified But how weighty are the responsibilities and how many and importent the qualifications. But as Bolain opend the mouth of the dumb beast so he may speak a a word by this unworthy day. I am moste affrade that I would be disposed to preach myself and not Christ. I know I am proud and ambitious and wish to appear to be somebody when in fact I am nothing But I think that on no former do I [recalled] of having more of a sincere desire that God would come and gloryfy himself that he would appear in vindication of his own cause. Thare is so many needy souls and careless creatures in the neighborhood and congregation that no beast can feel indifferent who has the love of god or man at hart But god must do the work [Haman Swason] cannot

[Aug 2, 1842 Page 136]

do anything atall only drive away the Spirit of truth when it is not desired that God may be supremely glorified, for God will not allow a worm of the dust to have the honour which is due to him But time forbids me to detail my thoughts in this place The day was fine but cool. Today I did but little except get home and rest after my fatiguing journy Day fine clear & cool

Tusday 2nd.

Resumed teaching but was pained to find maney of the Children away with their then parents to bury Corne from the field had in all but about 22 It is a pity that they can not be retained and made to learn more rapidly

Day clear dry and cool

Wedensday 3

At fathers request I went with him and Mr. Hamilton to seak a place where we might mow some hey for the winter

[Aug 4, 1842 Page 137]

This took our time nearly until the mide of the day, after which I went to the village and had a few schollars about 20 Maney of the people or families of the villag have moved to ther corne fields and so are out of my reach this seems like a great loss. To be hindred from the little that is doing seems bad. I hope that they may soon be come more sober and steady and remain more constantly at home In the evening we went to Mr. Hamiltons to Mr. Richardsons to meeting Day warm and clear but cool nights.

Thirsday 4

Started Early this morning on horse Back to School with a view at the request of Father to hunt some grass that would be suitable for mowing I found none good but went to moste of the houses. They are now [compey] about at their fields to make sweet corn the Schollars are seated and I hardly know what to do

[Aug 5, 1842 Page 138]

I had but about 20 something seems always to be in the way a number of squaw was drunk and some men. They are about going on a visit to the Otoes It is late Day fine sun clear and warm wind S.

Friday 5th

Started to the village and went by the dwelleg of White Crow who I found worse than ever he is being very Bad with the gravel. I went Back for Mr. Hamilton and we brought some medicine which we hope may be useful. Went to the village but moste of them are absent found only about 20 Schollars but they have a good oppertunity of learning. Returned to see the Crow twist in the afternoon but he is not aney Better poor man suffers very much Oh that he had the hopes of the Gosple But the flies plage me so bad

[Aug 6, 1842 Page 139]

I must desist Day warm & some signs of rain.

Saturday 6th.

Spent part of the day in visiting the White Crow who still continues very sick. I fear he will die He is badly swolen and no passage of water for several days. It seems that but little can be done for him. He does it is true follow our directions to some extent but not fully. Could his soul be enlightened so that he could find hope and consolation in this way it would be a wonderful releaf to his bodily sufferings But God rools and knows will what is for the best. At the village had but a few schollars so maney having gon to their corne fields, and care but little about

[Aug 8, 1842 Page 140]



learning Another week is about gon and gon forever All its doings are faithfully recorded on high and the great day will unfold things in ther troue colors Oh Lord what is rong mercifully pardon and [ins] [fulten] direct. Day warm and some appearence of rain

Monday 8

On yesterday I didnot go to the village. In the afternoon we meet at Mr. Hamiltons and it fell upon me to make some remarks which I strove to do from Ezra 3rd chapt. in reffernce to the [Heaten duly [XXXXX] the heathe and as weakmor] under God. This was monthly [consal.] This morning [Neumonya] cam and told us the Sack ware comeing to visit them and they ware going out to meet them, and to assist them in a good display they wanted to Berrow our horses

[Aug 8, 1842 Page 141]

with some reluctance we consented but I took the precaution to go along just as I got thare I saw a drunken Indian mounted on Mr. Hamiltons horse and going at full spead. I refused my horses telling the Chief that I would not give my horses to drunk Indians as we ware talking the man on horseback started to the Sack encampment. The chief calld to him but in vain. I took my horses away and hid them in the neighbouring [road], and returned for Mr. Hamiltons horse but could not find him after waiting a long time I took one of my horses and went after him I found the horse at Plums house and took him forthwith the house seemed to be litterly full of drunk Indians and many ware about the yard and fences also drunk. No school it is discourageing and perplexing I Scarcly know what to do. So much hindrinces and carelessness

[Aug 9, 1842 Page 142]



on the part of the Indians that it seems hardly worthwhile humany speaking to try to do anything attall But God reigns we must be [stout]. Day warm and some appearences of rain

Tusday 9th.

Went as usual to the village but found some drunk and the minds of all taken up with the contemplate fare with the Sacks. Today they are going to smoke horses to the Sacks. Great preparations are being made for it in dressing painting and such like. The children ware so much engaged that I cold not do much in teaching. It is wonderful and trying to see how many things seem to hinder the School and the improvement of these poor creatures. In the evening I come by where the white crow is being He is quite ill. I fear will die soon, yet he is rational and seems not to fear death But the sting has not be extracted but only lost in the

[Aug 10, 1842 Page 143]

polution and defilement of his mind some appearence of rain.

Wedensday 10. Aug

This morning I was unwell, on last evening I took some fisick what makes me sick and weak. Soon after I got up word came that the white crow was dead and a coffin was wanted I was too sick to work but after Breakfast (though I was not able to eat) I assisted Mr. Hamilton and father some in makeing a box of Boards which answered a good purpose. The day was so wet and I so unwell that I did not go to the villag. Stad at home and wrote letters mainly Father thinks of starting to Liberty in the morning. Beautiful rain in the morning which begun before day and continued untill near 8 and then later showers through the day fine growing time.

Thusday 11th Spent the leisure time I had in working at a close press which I been trying to make for our own

[Aug 12, 1842 Page 144]

convenience. At the village several ware drunk, and as they lade mourning for the man who was buryed yesterday some of the oldest men ware drunk and appeard to be deeply affected with the loss. Had not much over so Schollars they are all very busily engaged in drying corne. Day continues wet and gloomy, some rain fell and wind continues E.

Friday 12

Went to the village at the usual time and found but few children or old people thare, moste beig absent at their corne I at times felt discouraged, and almost disposed to give up. So much away and So irregular in attendence, that scarcely anything seems to be a doing. And prospect not much encourageing But diligence is necessary and must be exercised. Fell much my sins and

[Aug 13, 1842 Page 145]

follies and the predomnency of my fleshly lusts It is wonderful that at this distant time I have not these subdued and slain. It is a great mercy in god that I am not out off in my sins. But goodness and mercy is still around me Health and prospery is mine may return of gratitude be on my part. Day gloomy and some rain

Saturday 13th. Aug

At school found But few Schollars maney, infact nearly all ware gon and settled at their corne fields. Hurried away from writing Day gloomy and some rain fell

Monday 15th

On yesterday Mr. Hamilt. & I went to the Indians and with some difficuly and delay, after going considerable distance got a few together but befor the devise was over not one was left in the house who first came in. It is truly discourageing But god knows what is lust and will work for his own glory. In the afternoon we

[Aug 13, 1842 Page 146]

meet for meeting at our room. It was a time of some solemnity to us and ought to be long remembered. We in form, consecrate or gave away our young little daughter to the Lord in Baptism. The Lord gave it and to him we would cheerfully and in faith desire to return it. It is a great privilege to receive such a gift from god and it is a much greater to give it Back to him again. Her name is Mary Jane I that she may be like mary of old that she may set at the saviours feet and it that pure wisdom which is from on high. It is no doubt a difficult matter to give up a child to god. Should it get sick and draw near to death could we say [here] God is thine if thou art pleased to take it. Thy will be done. But if she is spared all may she be useful in the church and be an bein of life eternal Went to the village today. Had but few Schollars nearly all gone from the village. But those who are how a fine oppertunity of learning Day clear off after a long and rich wet spel on yesterday some fine showers.

[Aug 16, 1842 Page 147]

Tusday 16 Aug

Early this morning Father and the children (Nancy & Rhoda) Started to the Platt county the children to visit and Father to Liberty. The morning was takeing up in preparations for this. Today Richardson came fo rme to go with him to Wachamonies to talk some I went but before geting to the place we ware told that he was from home and did not go. Went to teaching But found the Schollars Scarcer I having found a few on the way which together made several. The Evening rain cool & high wind from the N.

Wedensday 17th.

Started early to fulfill the business of yesterday with Wachamonya and at his house found all sober and had the pleasure of partakeing with them in a [Rackom] feast, which was will Boild with

[Aug 16, 1842 Page 148]

green corne. But I did not much like the victles. I went to a number of their camps (in their corne) but found the children scattered How difficult it is to get them collected and get them instruction. Today I have thought much about what appears to be the path of duty. It seems to be discourageing to remain hear purhaps moste of my life and do nothing more than teach a few Indian children lettres. It often appears to me that I ought to try to preach the Gosple. But am I qualified and how am I to obtain permission? Several of my friends seem to urge me to it But it is so solem and Important and so deep and broad that who is sufficient for these things. The great question wheather I would not be disposed to preach myself more than Christ takes up much of my thoughts I am so proud and selfish and disposed to think that I am something when I am nothing that I may be easily [XXXXX] But I have not now time to write Day clear warm and very fine -

[Aug 18, 1842 Page 149]

Thirsday 18th.

Started early and made what haste I could that I might be able to finish in the evening a job of work what has been on hands for some time. And more especially that I might be ready to receive Dr Smith who was expected at our station this evening. I had not maney Schollars but moste of them who ware thare did well. On yesterday I had a talk with Wawpash. He voluntarily told me that the White Crow an Indian who had died a few days ago, had just got home, that the sky was now clear, the sun shown out and he was now at home in rest. That this heart was rong when he started and hense he had bad weather on the way. I asked him how for the house or county to which he went was off, he said more than four days. that a smart person could travl it in about that time. I asked him how infantes and such who ware not able to walk

[Aug 18, 1842 Page 150]

ware transported he said that at the town or ``Big Village'' as he calld it, they always knew when persons died and would come and carry them away. But suppose a large & infirm one such as Nohwhamonga, who is lame and others infirm ware to die, how would they be carried? could one carry a big spirit of this kind or how maney does it take, for such said he they bring horses. They have horses pleanty and fine grass for them to live upon. He went on to add that their infirmities would be all heald in that village, that the blind should receive new eyes, that ``they had plenty of good eysee than''. Ears and &c that good people will neve die again But bad may die 3 or four times and then turn into some Bird and fly about. Why do you not go thare now? (having described the county as on the earth, near to the great water towards the sun riseing and not far from the heads of the Mississippi, None go thare untill after they die he answered. Much was said near of the same amount. His system is strange but seems

[Aug 19, 1842 Page 151]

to be gathered all together from earthly objects How evident it is that revelation has never reached their ears or never entered into their system of Divinity and swords and punishments Day fine warm and pleasant wind N.W.

Friday & Saturday 19th and 20th Aug

Both days attended school with a usual attendence. This evening Father and the Indian Children who had been away at Platt and Liberty came home and Brought some letters and a number of papers. We have heard from our friends in P.A. They are all well. But religion seems to be in a verry low condition indeed If it is indeed living atall. They say that horse raceing is takeing much up the attention of the people this is a lamentable thing indeed. That place when [puty] and zeal seemed so much to

[Aug 22, 1842 Page 152]

abound is growing careless and sinful. How affecting is this. That when the Kingdom of Christ has got a hold that it should be deserted by his followers and that the ranks of darkness should be permitted to advance at! it is a thousand pities. And it is all for want of zeal and perseverance on the part of those who are the professed followers of Christ. When we look at the Darkness around us and hear their reports from our enlightened land from which we expect encouragement & help it is afflicting. But God will do all things will Days fine

Monday 22nd.

On yesterday Mr H. and I went to the village to have meeting We found a number at Numonyas tent feasting. They asked us to participate after their feast they agreed to have meeting But before meeting was over not one was left of those who ware thare at the begining except

[Aug 23, 1842 Page 153]

two who ware asleep. This is trying It seems we can hardly know how to proceed, or how we can exercise that path which we ought. Meeting at Mr Hamiltons in the afternoon and had a number of braves from the Ohio side of the River who have come over not so much for to get good as to see things new. This evening I was ovr taken with severe temptations from a source that I would hardly thought I would have any [XXXXX] ments. It is clear that the Devil is going about ,and our flesh is ready to receive and [obey] him. Oh that in the day and [XXXXX] of tryal I may find sustaining grace. Day fine, some appearence of rain.

Tusday 23rd.

At the village found but few children and some drunk so that but little was done in the way of teaching. I found one woman who was in a bad con-

[Aug 24, 1842 Page 154]

dition. She was near to the time of her confinement and unfortunately had falln from a horse and got hurt and appeard to be in much pain. In the afternoon Mrs. Richardson and Mrs Poteet (who had come to wate on Mrs P Richardson in her expected confinement) went up to see her and I went along for company and to protect the woman among the Indians. It was necessary for me to go again up in the evening to bleed the woman I Bled her and 2 others. The woman does not appear to be much if any Better. They seem to have but little knowledge in regard to those things They poor woman heave to do near all themselves. I have been thare 3 times today and each time saw some under the affects of liquor. What a pity that they throwe themselves thus away. Day warm & appearence of rain, but none

Wedensday 24

At school, as usual but few Schollars, nearly all away at their fields. Went to

[Aug 25, 1842 Page 155]

to meeting in the evening. My leisure time has been taken up today in writing a discourse from 21st Rev. & 7 verses. I have now on this subject trespased my time. I ought to have been asleep before now. Day warm& dry

Thusday 25

Worne down with writing and study and some unwell, pain in my Bowels and threatened with Diarreia. Went to Both villages but found but few children, in one none atall It is a wonderful pity to see them so careless. Day warm and dry

Saturday 27th.

Have been so busy that I could not find time to write as I ought. My writing seems to take up too much of my time. I attened the village both days and had a usual mount of schollars Time is Hurrying me along oh that I may be enable to improve it as it flies

[Aug 30, 1842 Page 156]

The days and weeks are passing by Day warm and dry.

Tusday 30th Aug 1842

Have just finished a long discourse and have not time left to write to my length here. On Sabath we went to the village and had some whites and Indians both at meeting and from both we had as good attention or better than is usual. In the evening we had meeting at our house and I strove to talk some from the 73 psalm and had a times a little [libery] but on the whole felt quite ashamed of what I had done. On yesterday and today at School with my usual number of Schollars. They have caught the crazy man and he seems to be growing [better.] This evening I bled 3 old people at their own earnest request. Days warm and dry

Thusday Sept. 1st. 1842

On yesterday I was diverted from my usual writing by studying another subject

[Sep 6, 1842 Page 157]

I have it in contemplation if spared to try to go down to the nodaway on next sabath and it seems necessary that I have something prepared for that occassion as I may have to take the forward part in the meeting no minister being present. I feel much in need of mental training, but more in need of grace Oh how ignorent and Blind I feel myself to be. Yesterday and today attended the village But few Schollars as the day moste being absent at the fields. yesterday warm & dry today more cool but cloudy.

Tusday 6th Sep

Since the last date I have been at Dr Smiths on the nodaway. I went thare with a view of aiding in a meeting, but when I went thare to my agreeable disappointment I found two ministers both of whom preached and I was releaved of much of the exercises. Sabath night I spent with Mr. Ewing and at his house ware a number of [XXXXX] persons with whom we had an agreeable time in family worship. I felt an ardent desire for the good and the intersts of the cause

[Sep 10, 1842 Page 158]



of Christ. I do not know wher I was so much engaged and led out on this subject, and was in possession of so much composure of mind. I am now quite unwell pain in my breast and very bad cold. I must be preparing for death and Eternity I feel bad this evening on account of not encouraging some young men to stay with us all night, we thought they ware traders and would not entertain them I thing we did rong. Today I assisted Mr Hamilton and Agent to take the roll [fo] the Sack to pay ther annuy.

Saturday 10

Since the last date I have been wonderfully, mentally. Having to and ther agent in paying out ther annuty to the Indians Both Sacks and foxes, and the main part of the [writing] calculations &c. was left to me. I have not ben able to sleep as much as I ought by any means, and I am now not fit for busins I must close quite unwell I may be [XXXXX] near to sickness and death Oh that I may be prepared.

[Sep 11, 1842 Page 159]



Still writing for the agent, was about starting to the village but was told that they ware so drunk that it was not worth while for me to go. I accordingly staid at home and wrote. In the evening I was told that an Indian had been kill in a drunken frolick It was afterwards fully confirmed. He was quite a good conditiond man and one who I regarded very much. his name was mingrata and what seems the moste strange is that he was murderd by his own [kind]. This is shocking but what is favorable about it that it was among connections and will go no farther Day cool & cloudy

Saturday December 11th.

I have finally through the goodness of a moste merciful god been permitted to resume my long neglected diary. At the last date I was attact with a disorder of the eyes which renderd me quite unable to see

[Sep 11, 1842 Page 160]

to read or write or infact to do anything at all for a long time I was for some considerable time confine to my room with the greatest pain in my eyes and it was wonderful how this disorder linger even after I was able to leave my room I could not see to read write or do scarcely anything, and even now at this distant date I cannot see very clearly and not without considerable pain Since the last date several things of some importance have transpired. one of the moste import as regards myself was a trip to presbity to get get advice from them in regard to the propriety of puting myself under ther

[Sep 11, 1842 Page 161]

as a candidate for the Sacred ministry presbity meet at Lexington on the last day September, and after consulting with Mr. Hamilton and the rest of the mission family and I would [humbly] trust swore prayer for the way of duty I concluded to go down for advice. The distance must have been more than 120 miles and I was absent 10 days and in the mean time sufferd not a little with my eyes. This trip to presbity has cost me much thought. I scarcely know the pathe of duty. I have for some time and especially at particular times thought of giving up every idea of pursueing my studies aney farther or striving to be more extensively useful in the world, but I can not it seems

[Sep 11, 1842 Page 162]

I cannot long or well endure that Idea and I am not shure that it is not in some degree owing to this on my part that for a long time I have found that vital pity seems (if it exists atall) is in such a low condition in my soul I seem to be almost dead and so I do often feel miserable, and at no time do I crying that happiness which I could wish or even once did. At presbity I meet with all the encouragement that I could wish although for want of my regular certificate I could not be regularly and in order taken under thare care yet a resolution was part that I be treated as though I was recd, and proceed to make preparations for examination in the Spring, whe I also could have my certificate in readiness. The labour which this involved me in is not a [little]

[Sep 11, 1842 Page 163]

but when I am the moste active in usefulness or prepareing for usefulness I always feel the best, and hense I am encouraged to try in the strength of God to try to go on. The greatest and moste difficult undertaking is the greek language But if my designs are pure and it is necessary in the [senise] in which I would engage to have a knowledge of this I have no doubt god in his goodness will give me strength to go through with it. I have yet scarcely tried it sufficient to know much about it but I am shure that it will be hard for me at this age.

Presbity sat at Lexington Lofyett Co mo. I came home by the way of Liberty where I met with father from our station. We spent the Sabath thare and then after making some purchases and spendg an other day we started home which

[Sep 11, 1842 Page 164]

we reached in due season. Immediately after my return I commenced building a small room as an addition to our dwelling and repareing our smok house which took up moste of the time untill snow fell Since writing last The Indians have recd, as was stated, thare annuity and what is worse not less than two have been kill in drunken frolicks Menyrela & Chotoing after the receipt of the annuity they ware for a long time moste wonderful drunken and it was from this that these lamentable acidents happened. On yesterday too Mr. Ballard and family arived here from the platt to spend if spared at least one year as [favour] to the Ioway Indians He spent the last night with us and today and today moved down to Mr. Roys house in or near which he will moste probably reside

[Sep 13, 1842 Page 165]

Since the last date the weather has been remarkable, untill about the first of November the weather was unbroken dry and warm. About that time a change took place we had a hard rane and soon after a deep snow and since, the ground has not been bare. We have already had more snow than is common in the whole winter, and the weather is severely cold The Missouri is frosen over and strong for wagons &c.

Monday 13th.

On yesterday we had meeting at Mr. Hamiltons room and it was my lot to make some remarks, which I strove to do from the 73 psalm I was at first sum embarest, not having for some time spoken in publick But the main enquery ought to

[Sep 14, 1842 Page 166]

be was God honoured? was his great and good name glorified? One thing encourageing I did not feel so much the useings of pride as is common with me. But it may have been workeing in some unseen [greater.] Spent the day in study Day cloudy and cold and ground coverd with Snow

Tusday 14

Spent moste of the day in the study except some time I spent in assisting Father to haul some wood Day cool & cloudy and a little snow fell

Wedensday 15

In the study This morning Father started with the team to assist Mr. Ballard in geting up his hay and some things which he has

[Sep 16, 1842 Page 167]



at his olld place in platt. In the evening meet for prayer at Mr Hamiltons. After meeting was assaild with severe temptations but was enabled soon to gain some victory over them Day cloudy & cool

Thusday 16

In the study all day and in the evening wrote a letter to Mr. Lowrie Day moderate, cloudy but not much thawing.

Friday 17

Spent the day at study except what time appeared to be necessary for exercise at Choping wood. I am favourably situatd I have not much earthly consearn, and am fully provided for in a temporal point of view if I do not improve my in such a time as this I need not expect ever to do it. May the Lord enable me to be faithful. Day clear but cold and pleasant.

[Sep 18, 1842 Page 168]

Saturday 18

The morning being fair and having some [corn] out and the Indians [being] stealing it away and having some help in my reach I thought it best to spend part of the day in puling off the corne. Mr. Ballard and father assisted me and we got done about three oclock The evening was spent in studying to try to prepare something for tomorrow as Mr Hamilton is absent Day very clear moderate and fine.

Monday 20th.

On yesterday Mr. Hamilton was not here and it fell to me to lead the exercises. The remarks which I strove to make was from the 32nd of Isaiah I had taken some pains to study what I said and it was pronounced with some care to myself but I fear that I did not labour

[Sep 22, 1842 Page 169]

sufficient ardent desires to promote the Glory of God. I am affrade that I strove too much to honour myself than honour God What a miserable thing pride is It is the root of all evil! When shall I be free from this worst of all evils, and a evil too of which thare is little room one would think in me. We had quite a fine congregation and all verry attentive I trust they did not hear in vain. Today I went to study and fer health choped some wood. Day fine moderate and clear, but the snow still lies on.

Thusday 22nd.

On Tusday last we ware all engaged in assisting Mr. Ballard to butcher his hogs which he has just drove up from the platt county, and on yesterday I spent moste of the day in the study and in the evening

[Sep 25, 1842 Page 170]

went to prayer meeting at Mr. Richardsons though it was not without some pain from a wound I had recd in my great toe from the fall of a pen knife the little blade piercing my Boot and toe. I suppose to the bone. It was painfull last night and today I have sufferd considerable The weather still continues very Cold and snow does not waste. I ought to have stated that on last night we recd a number of letters from frends and are rejoiced to here of ther welfare some of our acquantices are gone the way of all the being many are in ready also.

Friday 23rd.

This morning I set down with a view to spend moste of the day in writing letters &c. but was soon stoped by a call of Maj Richardson to go with him to see an unfortunate french man who had got into a difficulty with the Indian, in a drunken frolick and

[Sep 26, 1842 Page 171]

was sade to be severely beaten. on examination He was found to be severly injured his head was severely cut especially in one place I had to sew it up it was so that I could easily probe it to the scul bone His hands ware badly frosen and we had to poultice them. His nose bled considerable and he was much disposed to sleep I am affrade that his case is rather dangerous. It is wonderful wat misery this whiskey does to the human family. In the evening Mr. & Mrs. Ballard was with us so that I got but one letter wrote and some reading. Last night was hard freesing Day cloudy and wind S. but still freezeing

Monday 26th.

On friday I was emploid part

[Sep 27, 1842 Page 172]

of the day in attending to the infortunate man who was pounded on yesterday. On yesterday morning he died and moste of the day was spent in preparing a coffin and geting him put under the ground. This is a solem occurrence but I have not now time to give reflections I fear the consequences but on this I cannot dwell Today I resumed my study and for exercise commenced to make a book case In the evening we meet at Mr Hamilton for prayer for the oppressor and the [oppost.]

Friday & Saturday clear and more mild, today gloomy and snowy all day but not very cold.

Tusday 27

Spent moste of this day in working at a Book Case that I am trying to make and wish to have it done before the school commences. Day moderate but snow fell all day & nearly all last night

[Sep 31, 1842 Page 173]

Saturday Dec. 31. last day of the year!

Since the last date I have been engage in work at my Book Case untill yesterday when I got done and had to go out to the agents to visit him some in writing out his accounts and prepareing them for the close of the quarter. I spent part of today also in writing for him and part of this evening was spent in prayer at Mr Hamiltons in Thanksgiving for the kindness of the Lord during the past year. It was not however my privilege to be thare it appeared to be my duty to stay at home and let the rest of the family all go. It is but seldom that I have been hindre from going to meeting and my wife has frequently and it is but proper that I should take part of the burden The weathr still continues freezing the ground covered with snow and cold.

[Sep 31, 1842 Page 174]

And now another year is wound up, the history of its doings is now finished and indelably enstampt on the records of eternity It is seald and fixed untill the great day when the ``Books shall be opened'' My oppertunities for doing good to my fellow creatures in this year are now over My privileges for labouring in the cause of my master is now for this year at an end. And my time for repenting & mourning and obtaining pardon for my sins in this year are now also done Solem thought. Which should at least make me more prayerfull and watchful in future for I am growing with great rapidity to that Land from which I can never return Time will not allow me to write more now

[Mar 25, 1842 Page 225]

Monday Mar 27th.

On yesterday we meet in Mr Hamiltons Kitchen and had had a verry pathetick discourse from these words. I am jesus whom thou persecutist. It was shown in several ways how Christians may and often do persecute Christ. I am apalle that I moste wonderfully persecute Christ. Today I commenced to chop logs for a stable or barn. I wish to get all the materials ready and what I can done this winter that I may not be hindered from teaching in the Spring. Day Cloudy but moderate.

Tusday 28

Butchered a beef in the forenoon, one which Mr H and I had in partnership. It turned out but poorly, though it is much better than I diserve.

Wedensday 29

Continued to Cut logs The trees hung with a heavy white frost all day. moderate.

[Mar 30, 1842 Page 226]

Thirsday 30th.

Engaged all day in hauling logs. We had four teems at hauling logs for the intended barn. It requires much more labour than one could suppose to put up a building of this sizee. I am verry tired indeed my arms akes. But have I good hope of a building in heaven when I am done building and [todeing], when pain and disappointment are the common lot of all Day verry clear and some could.

[Jan 1, 1844 Page 1]

January 1st. A.D. 1844

Through the amasing kindness of God I am spard to see the commencement of another year. In the year past what multitudes have been called into the eternal world and still I have been spard. I would try to consecrate my all to the Lord. My time talents property and all and beg that though this year I might be enabled to see the Lord in a more [entire] and [XXXXX] manner than formerly. The year past has been marked by mercies from the father of spirits. No [enroad] has been made on us by death nor no importent sicknss or serious misfortune. The year with all its intersts is seald up to the great day.



[Jan 1, 1844 Page 2]

spent most of the day in the offise reading and meditateing. At 2 oclock we had meeting, of prayer for mercies past and consecration for the times to come and imploring the aid of gods spirit to assist in the year upon which we have just entered. And after night we had another meeting to unite with others in praying for the spread of the gosple over the world.

Up to the present time the winter has been remarkable for consistant mild and pleasant weath except occasionel mud. But today thare is a most remarkable change. Since Saturday morning it has rained from the east almost constantly, but about

[Jan 2, 1844 Page 3]

noon the wind turned from the N.W. and in less than 12 hours mercury fell from 77&UnknownEntity; to 17&UnknownEntity; ! It is now snowing and freesing.

Tusday 2nd.

In the offise seting [types] &c. was visited by pumpkin and scolded because that I did not treat the Indians as Jeffrey the former interpreter had been wont to do. Wrote a letter to my Revd. & honored frend Dr. Swift of Allghy [XXXXX] and I in the evening went to the Agency and spent part of the evening in pleasant confersetion with our kind friends thare. This even the Indian children [& our] familys had a supper at our house. Day still cold and some snow.

[Jan 5, 1844 Page 4]

Wedensday 3rd

Spent the day in the offise at type seting and and study

The day is rather storm and more cold than usual.

Thirsday 4th.

Today Mrs. Irvin & Mrs. Ballard & I went to the agency to visit. I was called by the Indians to go to the agents to interpret. No heart & pumpkin ware on some busines of geting provisions & and they brought me under promise of going with them to Rubedeaus to see that they got good weight and measure The agent proposes to go along. We dined at the agents and suped and spent the even at Mr P. Richardsons & with Mr & Mrs Ballard very pleasantly

[Jan 5, 1844 Page 5]

Neighbours are always a great blessing particularly those a such as we now have. Nothing can surpass their kindnes and hospitality towards us and all their neighbours. How great must be the socien enjoyment and pleasure of the upper world when all is pure and perfect place?

Day about the tempreture of yesterday and evening clear and very pleasant.

Friday. 5

[Nothing wothy nater.] In the offise and in the evening suped at Mr Hamiltons where Mrs. Irvin was visiting in the Afternoon. It is now a long time since we spent any time together be[XXXX]. perhaps we should spend more than what we do.

Day mild with some snow.

[Jan 6, 1844 Page 6]

Saturday 6th

Finished seting up one form of pages for the primary Book and in the afternoon went up with Mr Hamilton to [bury] the [head] of the Omahaw which was [sticking[ on a poal near some gone at the Ioway village. The Inhuman Ioways who kild the Omahaw in the poll cut off the head and it has been sticking upon a pole ever since in view of the village. We dug a hole and put it under the ground. How desperate is human nature when left to its self

The skull was some broken from the blows it received. But the poor Indians know but little

[Jan 8, 1844 Page 7]

of what is right I know much and great will be my accountability. May I live in proportion to my knowledge Day moderate and foggy like the breaking up of spring.

Monday 8th

On yesterday remained at home while the others went to the village and spent most of the day in reading was much interrested in the 110 [psily] particularly in view of the monthly consort upon which was attended at Mr Hamiltons after having preaching at his house at two. The day was fine and we had a large congregation. At the village Mr H. was assailed by one of the war party for having buried the skull of the Omahaw on yesterday.

[Jan 8, 1844 Page 8]

Mr. H. told him if he wanted a skull stuck up on a pole to cut off his own and put it up. But he said he wanted the teeath to rattle in a gourd. Mr. H. told him to pull out his own teethe and rattle them. after sum mor such sharp conversation He said it was a sad place and he would go away from here. Mr. H. told him not to touch the head but he said he would dig it up. Feering that he should do so, I went this evening through the storm and took it up and buried a bout ½ miles distant a an obscure place where he will never find it. How inhuman they are and unkind in their feelings. This day was different from yesterday, very [stormy] snow has

[Jan 9, 1844 Page 9]

fell this after noon and evening 4 or 5 inches. We spent part of the day in surveying the ground fer the [Boarding] School farm.

Tusday 9

In the [puntry] offise all day Had some conversation with No heart about making the Boarding School, and having Mr Ballard stay and take a part in it. He is much pleased with the notion, says he wants his children to have good eyes to see a great distance off meaning ther understanding. Through the day and last evening I have been much affected with my comefortable situation and that of my family. We have everything that we could ask, plenty to eat, a good head, our family in health. and we know not what it is to suffer

[Jan 10, 1844 Page 10]

fer any thing. True our house is but a cabin and some would say in our situation that they were poor, but we are wonderful well off. I have my little room and my family have theirs and I can read and study and print and no one to disturbe me. O how we [worthy] thear privileges. I pray God I may be enable to improve these favourable moments for they will not always last.

Day clear and moderate.

Wedensday 10th.

In the offise moste of the day except part of the afternoon I had to go with the chiefs to the agents to do some interpreting Today Mrs. Hamilton was deliver of a Daughter, and as I understood had an easy time. In the evening

[Jan 11, 1844 Page 11]

went to prayermeeting at Maj. Richardsons and spoke some from the last chapter of Duteromomies, with regard to the character of Moses. Think I felt the importance of being more like that holy man. Day clear and fine and quite moderate.

Thirsday 10

still in the study attended an Ioway Council at no hearts and in the evening went with no heart to tell the agent the result of the Council which was that they employ Mr. Ballard for farmer another year. Day soft and some rain fell

Friday 11th.

Struck off 160 sheets of 16 pages making 2560 in all after which I went with Mr. Ballard to the agency to attend to some busines

[Jan 13, 1844 Page 12]

Last evening and this morning was quite unwell, and this evening still feel some ill but better. How poor is this fail [XXXXX] dying daily fogy and warm with E. wind, but changed wind from the W. and is now cold and freesing.

Saturday 13th.

Spent most of the day in the offise distributing type. About 9 oclock some of the Indians, chefs, on some busines of the nation which took up much of my time and in the evening had to go to the agents. Interpreting is perplexing busines and was it not for the hope of being able to do the Indians good I would at once give up the place. But I will try to do what is right and leave the

[Jan 15, 1844 Page 13]

consequences to God who governs all things for his own glory and the good of those who put ther trust in him. Day mild and mostly clear

Monday 15

On yesterday Mr. Hamilton did not go to the village, but Father & I went with Mr. Ballard and the childrens We went to no hearts to hold meeting but they were just assembling to council about the Otoes who were coming on a visit. I asked them if the busines was so urgent that it could not be put off untill tomorrow, but they said the busines was urgent. I remarked that it was not our wish to force our notions of religion upon them and took ocassion to introduce this subject that Christ must have a willing people , and before they ware [XXXXX] something of a talk made XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX we had some meeting, and in the afternoon

[Jan 16, 1844 Page 14]

and evening had meeting at Mr Hamilton

Today Mr. [Groull] came to live in our old room and work for me. I was in the offise most of the day Yesterday softer and some rain a wonderful time of mud, a better afternoon we had a most sudden change Mercury fell mor than 40&UnknownEntity; in 2 hours.

Tusday 16

Spent all the day in council with the Indians. Day very cold Wind N. W.

Wedensday 17th.

In the offise all day and verry tired standing up so much In the evening Went to prayer meeting at Mr. Hamiltons, and had our thoughts

[Jan 18, 1844 Page 15]

directed to the blessing and prosperity promised to isreal if they would obey and serve the Lord, and the curses denounced upon the same people for the disobedience. Ho wonderful is the extremes and not more wonderful than true. This no doubt is a fit representation of the blessing & curse which attend the conduct of every inteligent being. If god is obeyed he will bless and if disobeyed he will surely curse. Oh that I may be noble to give all to the Lord. Day moderate nights clear and day cloudy. River not frose yet, and no prospect of such a thing.

Thirsday 18

In the offise untill sent for by the agent to attend to some

[Jan 19, 1844 Page 16]

busines in the way of interpreting. Day fine warm south wind and mostly clear

Friday 19

Spent most of the day with maj. Richardson who come with his wife and daughter to visit us. In the evening he and I went out to no hearts and the shop. We saw an old Otoe who was blind and nearly def who manifested great frendship for us. In the evening and through the day I was much affected with my situation. I could not wish it more comefortable and easy. I have nothing to do [XXXXX[ my pleasure. I mean manual work, but much of study and [bounty.] May I improve all to the honour of him who giveth. Day soft but gloomy and wind E.

[Jan 20, 1844 Page 17]

Saturday 20th.

Most of the day in the offise except some time I spent in visiting some Otoe lodges and some of the Ioways and also in search of Elish [Derawey] who has been ading as striker, but who has been absent some time on account as is said of being sick. But I could not find him and had to return. The Otoes seem to be poor indeed and much degraded

Day moderate and moist gloomy and no freesing.

Monday 21st.

Yesterday I was some unwell, and didnot go to the village but tended meeting in the afternoon at Mr Hamiltons and also in the evening wher I tried to make some remarks, in which I had not much

[Jan 21, 1844 Page 18]

liberty. I was led to reflect that God would be glorified in the creation of [man] of if not by the salvation by the condemnation. Day gloomy and soft.

Today I was in the offise and in the evening went down to see some Indians who were camped near among whom was a woman (Nongro mo) who was verry low perhaps with [pewtired] sore throat. She seems to suffer verry much indeed and if not releaved must soon sink under her disease. Poor mortals how much they suffer in this world and may in all probably suffer in the next

Warm & S.W. afte more clear at about 1 oclock thermom. stood at 70&UnknownEntity; in the sun, now cold and freesing.

[Jan 22, 1844 Page 19]

Tusday 22nd

Engaged in seting type moste of the day except what time I was necessarily diverted from labour by the Indians, much assailed by temptation but hope the Lord will enable me to over come. In the evening spent some time in reviewing my critical exercise for presbity Beautiful Day clear warm W. S.

Wedensday 23

In the offise, and in the evening went to Mr Richardsons to meeting was much assailed by temptations and had much fear that in one instance I was to some extent over come Oh how poor and sinful I am. Day clear but mor cold than common.

Thirsday 24

finished seting up a [fer] of 16 p.

[Jan 25, 1844 Page 20]

for the press, and spent some time at my treat exercise, and assisted Mr Grove to chop down a tree for wood. Was told that a company of Osages have recently murdered a loge of Otoes How miserable the poor tribes around us and how careless of the everlasting and our present condition. Our Ioway and some Otos now here are drinking.

Day cold and evening cloudy

Friday 25

Busily engaged in the offise and in the evening struck one side of a sheet, was some unwell Which always admonishes to prepare for [futurity.] Went down to Wahamonus an found him in a good humor Day still cold but cloudy & a little snow.

[Jan 27, 1844 Page 21]

Saturday 27

Verry Busy in the offise all day and late in the evening finished striking off a sheet of the primary Book Had some humiliating views of my own unwortheness and of the great Goodness of God in providing me so abundantly with many good earthly things. I cannot see what more he could give me that would add to my enjoyment of earthly things I have no riches but I have as much as I really want and more that I could reasonably ask I have [lathes] and a shelter, and plenty to eat, and I need nothing more. O that I may mak a good use of all. Time is going along wonderful fast another week is gone and sealed up Pardon the rong that is done to God. Day cold and some cloudy

[Jan 29, 1844 Page 22]

Monday 29

On yesterday I went to the village to try to have a meeting and succeeded in having some at No hearts, but they were all so engaged in attending on a great [pipe] dance which the Otoes were making for the Ioways that but little attention was paid to meeting The day was extremely cold the Ther. lay 2&UnknownEntity; below 0. and yet these poor creatures were dancing naked in the open air. Day clear and cold

Tusday 30.

continued to set type moste of the day. On yesterday evening Mr Perce came over with

[Feb 5, 1844 Page 22a]

some provisions for the station and Father went with him to the River to get the things brought up we were very anxious that our wagon from Rubideaux should come home which has been absent mor than a week. Day very fine S. W. and [aware] by nights frosty and cool.

Saturday Feb. 3rd.

There has been such a constant monotony in this week of work at the press and study without any things worthe of note that I have not wrote down any thing here. On Wedensday we recd some Goods and Books from New York Which was a welcome receipt. How time seems to pass along! It is astonishing beyond measure the end will be her soon. Weather continues soft and what is most remarkable, on wednsday

[Feb 10, 1844 Page 23]



we had considerable thunder and lightening with heavy rain.

Saturday Feb. 10.

But one or two things of importance occurred since the last date. My time has been mostly engaged in the offise and I have this evening got off a math sheet of the Elementary Book. On Sabath last. It was my lot to speak in the auidence of the people which I did with some difficulty no having sufficient time to make the necessary preparations.

On Wedensday morning about 3 oclock Mr. Ballard and I started for St Joseph we got ther with some difficuly. The Woolf R. was up and we got some wet in it and it was a most severe cold night, the Ice was runing in the Mo. and we had hard work to cross there

[Feb 10, 1844 Page 24]

but we suceeded in pushing our craft through. I went to assist the Ioways in geting some provisions which they got to the amount of 150$. We got over the R. in the evening and concluded that we would rather travel home than lay as we would have to, among the Indians and so come on. We had to unload twise and at Woolf R. much difficuly on account of the ice. W got home at 5 oclock [XXXXX] [page is torn so the next few lines don't make sense] enough. I [page torn] think I am not [page torn] so strong and able [page torn] to stand had troue [page torn] and wealth as formerly. [page torn] The poor tabernical [page torn] will soon fall [page torn] common win Weather. [page torn]

[Feb 15, 1844 Page 25]

Thirsday 15

Still engaded in the offise without any occurrenc worthy of notice except that our last sabath night just after we had lain down Nancy was taken with a return of the chollick in a most severe manner. Verry soon after her [XXXXX] commenced she became deranged and was entirly out of her reason, and continued so untill wedensday morning she suffered most severely indeed no one can tell how much she did endure. On Tusday Mr Spencer

[Feb 17, 1844 Page 26]

the methodist surket Rider came down to see us, but was uncomfortably situated on account of severe pain in a tooth which I tried to pull but failed. On yesterday evening we had meeting here at our house in accommodation to Noneyes feelings which while deranged runs entirely on the subject of Religion. Weather now fine and warm, light freeses at night.

Saturday 17

With much pleasure was able to finish printing the last sheet of our primary Book today. It is swelled to 101 pages. We commenced last june. We hope that it will be very useful to the schools and we hope with the blessing of God an aid in

[Feb 21, 1844 Page 27]

communicating useful instruction to the poor Indians. On yesterday Old Mr White Crow died but they were so drunk that they did not get him buried untill today. They have just come up from Rubedeaux and many of them are drunk. I donot see that they are improving in the least. Poor Ioways when will they learn wisdom. Days still fine and pleasent.

Wedensday 21st.

Still engaged in printing on Saturday I struck off the lasst sheet for primary book and was not a little rejoiced at the end of the Book. In sabath evening spoke some to a small congregation, did not go to

[Mar 2, 1844 Page 28]

meeting at the village. On monday folded my sheets, and red up the offise. On monday evening got a letter from the Board but not much encouragement about the school I am now engaged in a hymn Book & wish to get through as soon as possible. This morning Issabell came down [soon] with a complaint that peter was about to abuse her and she wanted to stay at our house which perhaps she must do but much against my will. In great haste. Days all fine clear and warm with slight frost at night.

Saturday March the 2nd.

Have been carried with such rapidity along the tide of time that I have not had time to note the important occurrences of the time as I ought. Two remarkable occurrences have transpired since the last

[Mar 2, 1844 Page 29]



date. On last Saturday night Daha to ho, or the burnt kettle was murdered by his own daughter in a drunken revel at his own house, and on sabath Mr. B. and I went with his wagon and team to haul the corpse to the Grave. A few days since an old woman also died, it is thought mainly from the affects of an uncommon drunken spree. Old Mrs. White Cloud has lost her little [son], and today [wawtooches] wife was burried so that they seem to be falling on the right hand and on the left. On last tusday morning Mr Ballard and family started to move to their farm and home in the Platt Country, and took with them three Indian children in going which they had some difficuly from old [wachomonus] [obstency] in refusing to let his children go.

[Mar 2, 1844 Page 30]

In order, more affectually to affect his purpose he got drunk this evening before Mr B. started, and came to the house and alarmed Mrs. B. Mr. B. came to our house about 2 oclock in the night and I went up to stay with Mr B while she came down to our house. But they got off in the morning before the Old man got up and so escape the threats which had ben made the evening before about whiping Mr. Ballard. Today I went with Mr Hamilton to try to get over the R. to attend a temprence meeting at [Oryen] but failed in geting across the R. and came back The weather untill tusday last was very fine, since which time it has ben more wet, cool and some Boisterous The No. is now quite high and on the Rise.

[Mar 7, 1844 Page 31]

Thirsday 7th.

On yesterday was called by the agent to go and assist in geting some whisky traders who have been most [shockingly] cheeting the Indians. Went to the R. [dreseded] in Indian and went over with two others but failed in geting a trade. we then went up the R. five or six miles to another whisky shop but don nothing there and came home. I was quite tired from my walk. Still engaged in the offise and making some preparations for presbity, which I expect to attend providen willing in the mdle of the next month. I am so busy that it seems I can not get time to write here, and yet I seem to get but little don. But I am a poor miserable sinner and god must assist and lay too his hand or I will do nothing.

Weather find and has been so since the last date raining a little now.

[Jan 1, 1845 Page 1]

January 1st. 1845

On last evening Mr. Alferd and Miller came to our house on busines of the building. They are both brick masons and both wish the job. Mr. M. was rather dissatisfied that he did not get the job secured, and Mr. Alferd remained untill after dinner when he went across at the point, and I went with him that far. In the evening had prayer meeting at Mr. Hamiltons, and owing to the press of busines on my mind I did not enjoy myself so well. The day was remarkable fine very dry and warm.

Thirsday 2nd.

Engaged most of the day in writing a communication to Mr. Lower

[Jan 6, 1845 Page 2]

with a view to start to St. Joseph on tomorrow The day most fine

Friday & Saturday 3 & 4

Went to St. Joseph. made a contract with [XXXXX] to saw our joist, sheeting &c. and also a contract with a kickapoo chief to get what timber from him we would want to make the saw-logs got home about dark saturday night.

Monday 6th.

Yesterday. No meeting among the Indians, nearly all being about to Robedeaux for goods. Had meeting as usual at Mr. H. in the afternoon and at night rather cold and indifferent busines seems

[Jan 7, 1845 Page 3]

to press me sore. Yesterday was one of the finest that surely ever was warm as spring and clear and dry as could be

Tusday 7th.

Moste of the day in the house writing, and part of the day made a coffin for Wachamonges little son who died early this morning. A new hand come on this evening, now to [hix] hands which requires not a little care and attention, and seems much to distract my mind Last night there was some snow fell, but was gon by noon, now pleasant, night freezes moderately

Wedensday 8

Spent moste of the day in the house writing except what

[Jan 9, 1845 Page 4]

time was necessary to go go down to W. kreek Bottom to look for wood &c. to make lime fer our building. While there I was take with [XXXXX] my [XXXXX] and was scarcely able to walk home. In the evening we had meeting at the Agts. and when there found some letters one of which was from the Board with a new plan for the house.

Thirsday 9

Spent moste of the day in the house, not being well or scarcly able to do much Day wonderful fine. Night freezing ^ days above freezing point.

[Jan 10, 1845 Page 5]

Friday & Saturday 10 & 11

Busily engaged in the printing offise printing a question Book and striking some forms for the agt. and am now very tired scarcly willing to write -- Day asstonishingly fine like sumore. Night freese gentily days thaw moderately.

Monday 13. St. Joseph Mo.

On yesterday I remained at home, - did not go to the Indians but spent moste of the time in reading and in the afternoon went to meeting at Mr. Hamiltons, but after night I remained at home and all the rest, except Mary went.

This morning I started as soon as I conveniently could with

[Jan 14, 1845 Page 6]

Maj. Richardson to St. Joseph on busines of the mission or the mission improvement. My main object was to contract fer the brick work but not finding the man at home I was detained to no purpose except that I as not a little uneasy to get back. Felt much unhappiness on being somuch exposed to strangers and the busines of the world which it seems in my situation I cannot well avoid. Day fine but some cooler that yesterday.

Thermometer at 70 in the shade

Tusday 14

Mr. Miller didnot get home untill late in the afternoon, and it was not untill near sundown that I got my busines

[Jan 15, 1845 Page 7]

closed and ready to start home. late however as it was I started home about sun set and was permited to reach home about 10 oclock. I must confes that I am at all times, when away too anxious to get home, so much so that I act imprudently. If I had the same untireing anxiety about geting to my home in the heavens it would perhaps be better for me This evening was so warm, later as it was, that I could not with comfort ride with mittens on It was infact like the summer Ther. over 60º --

Wedensday 15

Today went with Mr Fermen to the rush aisland to take up

[Jan 16, 1845 Page 8]

some oxen and bring down one yoke for our own use was moste of the time unwell, severe head ake and had cold went to bed on reaching home and was up but little and took some medicine which still added to my sickness. Day moist and soft with some fog or mist of rain

Thirsday 16

Did not do much except assist Mr. Hamilton some in the offise in geting up some forms &c. wass quite unwell all day and unfit for doing much Day more cooll wind from the No. some little snow and appearence of rough weather

Friday 17

Assisted some in

[Jan 18, 1845 Page 9]

The offise today and in the afternoon went to the stone quary to see how things were geting along there am some better, and desire to thank a praise the living and true God for all his benefits Day cold and clear, but beautiful.

Saturday 18

In the forenoon put up the meat to Smoke and laid out some for the Indians, and in the afternoon went down with to the Indians, and also went a cross the branch to our Indian tent and found a large bare skin which I bought for my friend Andrew Buchan of Pa. This was a most beautiful day, but rather cold Mercury at 20º shade.

[Jan 28, 1845 Page 10]

Tusday 28th.

Since the last date have been busily engaged in busines for the building. On last friday I went to St. Joseph on busines of the improvement. mainly to get money. I returned the same day about eleven oclock much fatigued fer the ride must have been more than 50 miles which is hard for these days. The press of seccular busines has not a little disturbed my mind, and deranged my calculations for study, but all is right if I am in the line of my duty. I find in my mind a wonderful inclination to run after things of this world and to study about the improvement now on hand. It is perhaps the polasy

[Jan 28, 1845 Page 11]

of the Devil to make attention to this busines seem of wonderful importance so as to foil me and [lead] me away from things which are spiritual and eternal. No doubt he improves my opertunity of doing his work, which in my case is many instances prossecuted with great success The weather still continues wonderful fine.

on wedensday evening we had a rain which terminated in a snow of about three inches deep. We all thought that severe cold would follow, but it has again become quite moderate ground bare, roads fine and all very pleasant. It far surpasses what we have ever seen in this county or in any other.

[Feb 1, 1845 Page 12]

Saturday Feb. 1st. 1845

Have been engaged in geting materials for the house, such as rafters sleepers &c. on thrsday we had some company of young folks from St. Joseph with Mr Hall & his lady which took up moste of the day. On yesterday I went to the mouth of Wollf River to get some sleepers. worked hard and was so tired that I could not rest well in the night Much perplexed about the busines. of the house On Wedensday there were three masons came from the other side of the River to get the mason work of the house and it is not a little perplexing

[Feb 13, 1845 Page 13]



to attend to such busines. I am truly weary of it.

Thirsday 13th.

Been mainly engaged since the last date in seeing to the things about the house and in making preparations for the meeting of presbytery &c. My time goes on. I can hardly tell how. The time is past and God Recd I can hardly tell how it has been spent. But the great day will disclose wonders that I perhaps have long since for God. O that I might be ready fer that Great day Weather continues most fine untill today is some cloudy and appearences of rain, some Lightening, this evening.

[Feb 14, 1845 Page 14]

Friday 14

Spent near all the day in the printing offise printing off the first sheet of the Testament in Ioway. we struck off 240 sheets of half a ream and having taken some pains in putting type and balls in order we made quite a good impression. Had some trial in mind with regard to some occurrences past which Mr. H. and I had in conversation. But all is fer the best and I would try to improve from all that I learn. Day very snowey Last night we had some rain and it frose as it fell, covering all that it fell upon with ice. Soon after sunrise it turned to snow and continued all day with a smart wind from the west which made it the severest storm we have had this year.

[Feb 15, 1845 Page 15]

Saturday 15

Spent most of the day in preparing a talk for tomorrow as it is the wish of Mr. H. that I if spared and willing should fill up the time on tomorrow. My mind at Mr. H. Suggestion was directed to solomons conclusion. ``God created man upright but he hath sought out many inventions. All I will do is to enlarge a little on these two remarks solomon 1 of Man was created upright 2nd He has sought out many inventions Day cool cloudy and wind N.E.

Monday 17

On yesterday I in the forenoon went to the village or encampment with Father and Nancy and we had meeting at meries house [XXXXX]. At

[Feb 14, 1845 Page 16]

one oclock we had meeting at Mr. H. and I attempted to talk from the words which I had thought over on yesterday ``God created man upright but he has sought out many Inventions, and in the evening I made some additional remarks from the same subject. In the evening had more freedom than through the day Day one of the finest ever that could be warm south wind an clear warm since but it was very sloppy and mudy roads on account of the snow which melted off wonderful fast

Today I spent moste of the time in preparing my trial sermon for presbyery which I find some difficult to do as I cannot keep in proper bounds of length. Day fine but not so warm as yesterday.

[Feb 18, 1845 Page 17]

Tusday 18 1845

Spent moste of the day in my study preparing my trial sermon except some time I assisted the hands in fixing some sleepers fer the new house. About 12 oclock Mr. Craig and Mr. Faber of Oregan came to our house had dinner and some talk and again return to oregan that night. This day was most fine warmer and pleasant. vegitation is in some places I its I.

Saturday 11

Spent most the time since the last date on my trial Sermon, have got all the rough materials that I need to frame it up and much more than I will be able atall to use

[Feb 18, 1845 Page 18]

On the day before yesterday a no. of the Ioways come to the station to fer [XXXXX] our making a fence which we had commenced as a pasture enclosur for an cattle and we afterwards understood that it was their intention to ask M. H. to leave, but they did not mention it when with us. They wer not unfrendly but quite pleasant and although we were vexed and disappointed yet, some one else is no doubt more to blame than the poor Indians. Much troubled in mind about this and other things and the low state of Religion. When will the poor Indians learn wisdom Weather generally mild and moist Last night some snow but today disappeared Tonight clear and will be frost.

[Jan 1, 1849 Page 1]

January 1st. 1849

I have for some time been rather irregular in my journal, partly from neglect and partly from the fact of my affairs being so monotonous that there were but few things really worth recording. But I think it will be best to resume it and try to keep it up more regular as I think a reference to it is at times useful.

The year has commenced with favour. I spent most of the day in the study makeing some preparations fer the coming sabath upon which it is proposed that we have a commen [page unreadable at this place] My leisure hours wer spent in arranging some things more conveniently about our kitchen and Mr. Hamilton & I spent a part of the evening in [XXXXX] bargaining about his staying one year which he agrees to do

[Jan 2, 1849 Page 2]

Upon reviewing the past year I fear I have not grown any in grace. It is a fearful thought, ``one year near death and the judgment and no better prepared in a whole year.

This year I will strive to be more watchful and attentive and try to make some progress. May God in his mercy assist me so to do.

Tusday 2nd.

Spent most of this day also in the study except what time was taken up in waiting on some of our neighbours who came in to help us eat two turkeys. We had a pleasant afternoon together. We dined near 60 persons once in our dining room. The Agent and son [Mems Hirmans.] How's and wife & Mr. Hardey wer here In the evening prepared a blank book to note the temparature of the weath this year.

[Jan 3, 1849 Page 3]

Wedensday 3rd.

Spent part of the day in hauling some wood and found it very difficult on account of the very deep snow upon the ground, which is now near 2 feet deep. In the evening we attended an little prayer meeting, and after meeting Mr. McCreary arived from the Nodawy bringing with him two fine turkeys

Thirsday 4th.

Commenced teaching school In the afternoon W. Lawrence from New York who is a travelling agent for a wholesale house there and who is a warm frend of missions came to our house and thinks of staying with us untill monday

Friday 5

Continued teaching, and in the evening our sacramental meeting commenced. It was my lot to preach which was attended to at candle light.

[Jan 6, 1849 Page 4]

Saturday 6

Spent part of the day with Mr. Lawrence an dpart of the day in making preparation for meeting. It fell to my lot to preach this evening again. My freedom was not great though I talked an hour and a quarter, in trying to show that the tendency of grace in the heart was to holiness of life

Sabath 7

Preaching at 11 and sacrement afterward by Mr. Hamilton. Nothing specially interesting Had two pleasant meeting with the children in Sabath School, mainly from the interest which Mr. Lawrence took in the children. He spoke well to them and seemed much pleased with their progress.

In the evening he gave us a long account of the benevolent institutions & operations of New York, and I followed with a few remarks.

Monday 8

resumed the school at 9 oclock

[Jan 9, 1849 Page 5]

Mr. Lawrence left at 9 In the evening Mr. Hamilton preached again.

Our meeting is over and we do not seem to be much refreshed on the contrery I fear we are growing more and more cold. There appears to be something wrong perhaps I am the [Akan.] Oh my soul be on thy guard.

Tusday 9

Continued in the School without any change. On yesterday Col Vaughn the agt. brought back one of the schollars and whiped him fer running off in presence of the School, had [wawkoochur] cutting some wood today and about noon recd. a quarter of Beef from Mr. Forman. In the evening [unreadable] a letter to Uncle McCreary.

Wedensday 10th.

Continued teaching, In the afternoon was much anoid by an old man who came into the school on account

[Jan 11, 1849 Page 6]

of his extreme disregard to modesty before the children, I admonished on the subject but he said he was an old man, and poor and destitute of a breech cloth, and wished us to give him one. It was old [montoyeraya] He was after me to haul wood for him and [XXXXX] with some other blind persons who were living together.

In the evening had meeting and I spoke from the story of the blind man being restored to sight by the Saviour, as recorded in the 9th of John, had some freedom

Thirsday 11th.

In the morning found that some mischievous young men had been among the hogs last night 3 were missing and one was sill living with 3 arrows in it. Went to the tents but made no discoveries except a track of the blod in that direction. Went to the Agent with the arrows, and informed him. He was much displeased and intends chastising those who he may find guilty.

[Jan 12, 1849 Page 7]

Spent the day in dragging up wood with the oxen which was slavish on account of the depthe of the snow. Dined at Mr. Hamiltons. To day Mr. Bishnel came to take away his daughter Catharin to St. Joseph, we objected and insisted on his leaving her untill the spring. He deferd decission on the matter till morning.

Friday 12th.

Spent most of the day in the study arranging papers and some thing preparity to my contemplated journy to the east in the spring. In the afternoon had a visit from Col. Vaughn and gave him a draft for [XXX] dollars.

Saturday 13

Spent forenoon at the study and afternoon in overhalling on meat and resalting it.

Sabath. 14

After preaching at eleven and in the afternoon went to see [wowkooche] and [totomonyer]. found the last house



[Jan 15, 1849 Page 8]

in considerable distress from blind persons and but little to eat. I put a full account of these conditions in an other place to be used in a lecture.

Monday 15 Hauld wood for the destitute formerly I visited yesterday and took them a piece of meat. They were truly thankful Spent the remainder of the day in writing to Mr. Lawrence a report of our mission It is late and I am cold and cant write to satisfaction.

Tusday 16

The forenoon was spent in getting wood and fixing a gait and some offers about the kitchen. It seems to require nearly the time of our person to attend to little matters about the house. Afternoon spent mostly in the study and answering the calls of the Indians, and also writing some letters. Strongly tempted at times to make some arrangement about leaving the mission. I feell

[Jan 19, 1849 Page 9]

that I suffer much from a wont of systam in my reading and study without this nothing can be done to advantage. How easy it is to loose time it is like a thief that is always on the wing and Eer we are aware it is gone. Made some preparation for the next sabath for preaching from the 1st. verse of the 41 psalm.

Friday evening 19th.

On Wedensday morning I commenced teaching and have now taught 3 days. There is so much XXXXX] in each days labours that it is useless to note each one separately. On wedensday evening I recd a small pacage from St. Joseph, but with only some papers, no letters. This evening I have spent in trying to look over the discourse which I expect to use on the sabath. On last evening Mr. Harris was here and staid untill [nate] and the evening was spent in conversation on various subjects, but little to the point of religion. How easy it is to spend an evening or a day without a word on this point

[Jan 25, 1849 Page 10]

Tusday 23rd.

Still engaged in teaching with out anything new. On Saturday No heart come home and had his little daughter to go up and see them and they retained her all night on Sabath I tried to preach from 41st v. But had not much freedom.

This evening Andrew Meyers came over and brought some papers of interest to Mr. Hamilton.

[Feb 25, 1849 Page 11]

Feb. 25th.

Since the last date not much that is interesting has occurred. No chang in the no. of Schollars in the school. On last week I was teaching and the week previous was at st. joseph on Friday a Saturday and at Mr. McCrearis on monday a tusday and on Wedensday come home. sufferd much from cold.

Today I was not so well being threatened with epedemick cold or influenza. Sowed some grass seed on the yards, and in the morning done some writing for Mr. McCrery who intends to start to California in the spring

Note Totomonga who has lost his eyes that if Jesus Christ was here on earth and he could see the saviour he would ask him for a new pare of eyes, and a new heart, though he was not particular about the heart his old was prety good and he could get along well enough with a new pare of eyes!

[Feb 28, 1849 Page 12]

28th. Feb.

Since the last date I have not done anything worth noting except that I have been attending some to the greek language My cold and cough has so much increased that I can do but little. Today I sowed some Grass seed on the yards and put on some [pailings]

Last night was very much troubled with cough and today with horceness on yesterday Mr. McCreary went over the River crossing on the ice He had been here with Robert fixing a wagon for California. He with a number of others are deep in the gold fever

How great reason to mourn over my low estate and the coldness of my love which does not appear to be in the least increasing but rather growing worse

[Cover not transcribed]

[undated address page 1]

Gentlemen Volunteers!

It is to redeem a promise made at the earnest solicitation of your Respected officers that I appear before you. And it is with mingled gratitude and sorrow that I meet with you today. Greatful to the father of all our mercies for the common and abundent blessings of his providence Greatful that we have among us so many that are willing to volunteer in the defence of our frontier, the protection of our citizens In the Indian country and as we humbly hope to promote the interests of our distressed and downtrodden aborigines. In view of the steps you have so cheerfully taken, we may safely conclude that there is in the commonwealth of Mo. a sufficient spirit of patrotism and self consecration to meet the demands of the most rapit and pressing immergency. But on the other hand When we look at this armory. These great and these little guns, these baynots and these swords, formed fer the purpose of [healling] death and desolation among our own species, it fells the super heart with sorrow. There is a wonderful contrast, and alarming descrepency, -- An irreconcileable difference, between the feelings of the philanthropist and refined mind, and the practical consequences of war When we see the affectionat wife, and tender mother watching with prayerful & tearful interest over the dying husband or child clomplaining that life is so short that the pains of death are so severe, and that the separation of the tender cords of affection are so pungent, we cannot but look with astonishment and sorrow, at these armorial formed expressly for produse this most painful and trying result.

But such is the depravity of the human

[undated address page 2]

heart and such the state of human society that military disciplin and forece cannot well be dispensed with. While therefore we would contialy pray for the appearence of the happy day when men shall ``beat the swords into plough sheers and their swords into prooning hooks'' we must submit to imperious necessity, and prossecut the accomplishment of a desired object in a way which we would not under more auspicious circumstances chase.

A few remarks therefore 1st. with regard to the people whether you are going, and 2d. to yourselves will embrace all that I have now to say to you.

With regard to the people among whom you are going I would beg leave to remind you that they are by no means your equals. They are inferous in every respect. You will not meet them as Nepolian met Wellington on the plains of Waterloo, with equal skill and equal means, but you will find these a feble comparably & cowardly people destitute of arms, and of military skills, utterly unable to mentain a successful conflict against an equal number, and it will be in granting as far as possible extenuation to these feble people that your true greatness and valour may appear. It is always a mark of cowardism & weakning to see the strong unnecessarily tryumphing over the weak. Some may mistake the wild [Huzzaurs] and the [XXXXX] hury of the persuing army on the rear of a vanquish fore as the [Eineasments] of courage and bravery, and it is in such situations that some men can only be courageous, but it is hoped that none of this company entertain such flagrant notions or will practise such inconsistencies.

[undated address page 3]

You might bear in mind too that you are going into their own country. we are advancing on them, not they upon us. And here I might remark that it requires the very highest offences or causes to justify a christian notion in introducing arms into a heathen country. We as christians & nursing fathers and nursing mothers should rather if possible be sending them cradles to rock their infants than cannon to exterminate their fathers. They have trouble some of our emigrants, but what right had our emigrants there? Where is the treaty granteing to them the right to pass? What Remuneration has been given for the Hundreds & thousands of buffalow belong to the Indian tribes but [XXXXX] slaughtered by our emigrants?

They may have violated treaty stipulations but they cannot look upon these promises as binding as we. They neither understand nor appreciate, the force of commercial or moral obligation or promise as we and hence I plead that all possible indulgences be granted.

Before going farther let me remark that these suggestions are not intended as I will soon sho you to encourage you in the violation of any from an officer. No Gentlemen Obedience to command is your inferous duty, but what I insist upon is that you excutions be made in view of kindness to the Indians. In this there is a great deal, an order may be issued and in executing that order you may incline far to the side of cruelty & not throw yourself responsibly or you may incline far to the side of kindness and mercy without overstepping the province of your instructions, and in these extremes there may be as much difference as though the order was of a different kind

[undated address page 4]

What I ask then is that you incline to the side of kindness, and if you [r] atall [r] on the side of mercy.

Again I would ask you to bear in mind that you are going among a people of extreme poverty, and the little that they have is [eard] by the hard labour of the females. You will find small [XXXXX] of corn, the avails of female industry, and if your orders will allow it spare these, neither wantonly destroying them without special instruction or allowing your animal to interrupt them. If you find the retreat of the lazy wariors the shade however where he passes his long hours anything the distruction of which will ultimately or directly put him to work or ultimately better his condition I have not one word to say fer him but the work of the female & helpless I plead for Remembering this touchy [XXXXXXXX] in [XXXXX].

If therefore in the prosecution of your purpose you should come in colusion with any of the Indian tribes I have in one word to ask you to act the part of Gentlemen and of christians

[undated address page 5]

The 2nd thing proposed was remarks to yourselves.

&1st. much of your happiness comfort and honour depends on your scrupulous observation of an obedience to all orders from officers. It is unnessy for me to speak of my confidence in the kindness & prudence of your officers. They are your own choise taken out from among you, and I trust that you find yourselves very happy in the selections you have made. It will therefore be your duty and privilege to obey [XXXXX] their commands. There are many good reasons.

On this depends very much your sucess and personal safety. If all are disposed to give command and disobey orders where is the safety and order of your company, disorders of this kind weaken your fase and expose you to the enemy. ``In union there is strength,'' and your safety and comfort both personal and collective depends, upon a concentration of your strength, and this can only be accomplished by a careful obedience to the command of your officers.

Your comfort depends much on this It is in the power of your officers to do much for your comfort, or expose you to difficulties It will therefore be an importent matter to gain the confidence and regard of your officers, that it may be their object to smothe your way through a souldiers. And you may set it down as an established fact that there is nothing so much endears men to a discreet officer than a cheerful and active obedience to what may be required. This is the way too to honour. Who does not like a well organized and trained company, it is the credit of both officers

[undated address page 6]

and privets. and to a company making such exhabitions honour is alike due to officers and men and though the company may be spoken of as a whole yet every individual forming a part of that company has a part in the honours

This I might remark too is the sure way to promotion and personal honour & distinction. It is along this humble path of obedience that many great men have in their first out-set cheerfully trodden. It is unfortunately the case that [XXXXX] some that they cannot with patients endure an humble position That they are constantly aspiring, looking with a jealous eye upon supperours, and disposed to use unfair means for promotion, but it requires more than human skill to obscure such a spirit, and when it is once discovered by a superour, an end is perhaps put to his oppertunities of elevation

2d. I would remind you of the necessity of a strict regard to your personal character and manners It is to [XXX]emented that the scale of improvement & refinement in the ordinary ranks of the souldier are so low, and it is a fact we cant resist that usually there is a great degree of [bycentiousness] in the martial ranks. The peculiar circumstances in which the souldier is placed, away from the influences and restraints of domestick and improved society, and associated as they must necessarily be with with the lower classes of society, of which the souldiery is usually composed, tend strongly to such ends, we can hardly expect another result. But Gentlemen much better things will be expected of you. You leave characters at home which we humbly trust will not be tarnished by this adventure. Many of you too leave

[undated address page 7]

families, and all of your near and dear friends who look with great anxiety to your comfert prosperity and happiness, as well as to your speady and honourable return, and when you have accomplished the work you have undertaken, and shall have been permited to return to your native land and commingle with society we hope that it may never be said of any of this noble band, that they have contracted a bad habit or lost a good trait in this campaign.

Society at home is on the advance and that you may return to it without imbaresment it is necessy that you not only retain your present improvements, but that you also make advancements. Your advancement in refinement may be promoted in various ways, such as respect fer your officers a regard for each other, prudent and careful restraints of the tongue, attention to personal neetness and manners and many ways which I cannot now mention, but all of which are in the nature and tendency calculated to endear you to your officers and to each other as well as promote your present and future happiness

Your personal conduct Permit me to all a remark with regard to the people among whom you are going. You should ever keep in mind that though ignorent and poor they are rational and accountable beings, being with whom we must stand assembled at the great day of accounts. Some seem to suppose that Indians have but little more rationalaty or accountability than the vile animal of the praries. But they are in their own way a shrude, observing compasing and classifying peoples, and this adventure being the first of the sort undertaken among them, your

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conduct will shape their notions, and opinions of white men fer many generations. It will therefore be desirable that you act with all becoming order and discreteness towards them, exercising no unnecessary cruelty, offering no insult or violence, and in every respect observing the established rools of morality and order, and it will be found that a careful observation of things will not only make a strong and lasting impression on the minds of the Indians with regard to civilization and the character of the whites, but it will have a most happy affect on your own mind in mentaining and promoting the principals and practices of virtue & charity which you have already imbibed

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4th. And finally Let me improve this oppertunity to admonish you to a serious contemplation of your future destany. The journy you have entered upon is a fit emblem of the journy of life. New scenes through which you have not before past, are coming before you so in life something new is [XXXXX] arising. You donot know where you will be stationed or whe your term of service will end, neither do you know when you can find a permanent resting place in the world or when death may discharge you from the eventful and [XXXXX]some campaign of life. The threatening storms of winter before you, and your anxiety to provide shelters for protection and comfert may remind you of the storms of infinite displeasure in reserve fer the unpenetent & wicked and the necessity of a shelter and place of safety. (Let therefore every circumstance which may seround you and condition in which you may be placed be made subservient to serious reflection and contemplation)

It can hardly be supposed that you will all return to your families and friends. Already death has entered your ranks, and some of you no doubt are litterly on your journy to the grave. Soon after you shall have selected your milatery past you will have to select a grave yard and some of you must enter the [XXXXX] preemption on the sacred ground. A few reports of musquets or cannon may anounce the event but when these trancient sounds die away upon the air, forgetful ness will begin to cover your names, and the [XXXXX] dance of human affairs will pass on as though you had never existed. But there is a role of victory a crown of glory a [XXXXX] [XXXXX] for the brow of the faithful souldier who loves his country

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and his god, to which we recommend you fer true honour and enduring happiness, and be assured that when you take your toilesome and eventful way across the broad prairie our prayers joined with all your friend will most cheerfully follow you, fer your personal comfort and your speady and safe return.

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Monday 10th.

Returned from the meeting of Presb. At Platt City. I had left home on monday a week ago. On leaving home I went to Mr. McCrearies and staid over the night, found the friends there all well except Mrs. McCreary who has for some time been ill with chills. On monday I passed by Oregon and visited my friend Mrs P. Fouts and Mrs. Craig & Mrs. McLaughlin who I had not seen for some time and who made me a most hearty welcome.

Tusday started early and dined at the house of my friend Mr. Rhorer. Mr. R. was not at home but his wife made every manifastation of affection and had me a fine dinner. I was much distreased in having to communicate to her the intelligence that I had concluded to remain at the mission and had abandoned every notion of going to the Nodaway to preach. But this kind lady took a very sensible view of the subject and for the sake of the Indians cordially acquiesced in what seemed to be the will of God. As she said we had advantages, and facilities for operating among the Indians which would require others years to obtain. After dinner I went on and called with my friend Mr. Elliott where I put up for the night. In the evening I went over on foot to see Dr Smith who resides about ½ mile distence. I meet the doctor on the way coming to meet me and we went to his house together. It was a beautiful evening indeed clear and fine. The new of my determination to remain was of small moment to the Dr. as he had already sold his place and was to leave.

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After a good supper and a friendly talk I returned to Mr. Eliotts where I spent the night. I thought my friend Mr. Elliott was most cast down about my not going down than any of my friends

On Wedensday morning I went to Saint Joseph and put up with Maj. Richardson for the night where I was most kindly entertained The afternoon was spent in attending to some busines transactions with the merchants.

Thursday I started for Plot Yantes In Skeep Fulton, Scott & others who seemed truly glad to meet with me, for it was now three years since I had meet with them.

Bro. Fulton opened Presb. with a discourse at candle lighting and afterwards the session of Presb with prayer, after which adjouned Friday spent most of the day in Presbytery, at eleven oclock Bro. Scott preached and at night I attempted to preach but my cough was so bad that it was with the utmost difficulty that I could proceede and indeed did not pretend to finish my discourse. It was from Luke 24 26 ``Ought not Christ to have suffered these things'' &c.

On Saturday I came on my way home as far as St. Joseph and put up as usual at my friend Richardsons. I had the misfortune to leave my watch at Mr. Jacks the place where I stayed all night. I had the privilege of sojourning with an old gentleman and lady the name of jack They are very fine people and I think christians in heart, it is a privilege to meet with such

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On Sabath I attemp to preach twise fer the Presbyterian and Baptist brethern jointly and was enabled to do so with some comfert and ease to myself, though I was troubled some with cough. In the evening had a fine attendence I spoke from these words ``He that hath this hope in him purifieth himself even as he is pure''

Reached home today in rather better health than I had expected and was much gratified to find all well.

Tusday 11 went with Ray & Tinken to the mouth of Woolf Creek to get some timber for posts, I was much exhausted and scarcely able to ride but after a little rest get some better.

Wedensday 12th.

Planted a bushels of early potatoes and in the afternoon started Robert at the plough to prepare for planting corn. The weather is so very dry that it seems scarcely necessary to plant anything untill we have some rain.

Thirsday 13

Forenoon Mr. DuEtt & I went to the grove near Hiwathoches village to get some timber for making palings. After some hard work we got some and reached home about two oclock In the afternoon I went to hunt the horses and had a long ride and finally found them not far from home contemplated if spared to start over the River in the morning with Mrs. Irvin and miss Davis on a visit to Mr. McCrearies Day beautiful clear and rather cool very dry indeed there has not for a long time over such a very long and dry time as there is now and has been for some time.

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Friday 14

This morning according to previous Arrangement Eliza & I with Baby Elliott and Miss Davis (School mistress) started over the river on a visit, or rather an errend of kindness to to see Mrs. McCreary who, for a long time has been ill and who, we have heard is no better. We reached Oregon about 12 oclock and were kindly recd and dined at Mr. Zooks after which we went on. Our direction was north and the wind was cool from that quarter with a little rain which made it quite severe for us and particularly for the little babe, about 7 miles from Oregon, Mrs. Irvin fell from her horse in crossing a branch because of the place being very bad and the saddle turning. Elliott too fell with her, but a kind providence preserved them from being injured in the evening we reach our place in safety, and I found Mrs. McCreary some better.

Saturday 15

This morning found our horses missing which caused a good mornings walk before breakfast, and without success. After breakfast Mr. Mc. & I. He on a horse and I on foot started in search of the horses and found them without much difficulty. After a short stay and doing some busines I started homewards where I reached about dark. All were well and getting along comfortabelly. Found a letter from Mr. Laurence Authorising us to buy Lariet or to advance the money for his freedom which will be a pleasent affair for him.

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Monday 17

On yesterday I remained at home and heard Mr. Hamilton preach. I am so afflicted with cough and horseness that I am almost unfit for anything, and think I shall not attempt to preach untill I am some better. After meeting visited some of the Indian lodges to talk to them found the woman mostly away getting stuff to improve their houses. As we were about going to leave Mr. Hamilton discovered some Indians at the stable getting off one of our horses. We though it must have been an Otoe, as there are some of them now here. I got a horse and pursued in the direction by moon light as fast as I could and travld in all about 8 miles but on my return found the taken horse at home He had returned a little before me. I suppose they were so closely pursued that they had left the road and thought it best to leave the horse Today still unwell, partly from medicine taken last night. In the fornoon painted our rooms and in afternoon prepared some postes to enclose more securely our yard. This evening there is some rain with high wind from N.

Tusday 18

So unwell that I did but little except still work some on the preparations for our yard enclosure The day was coll and still continues very dry so that it seems almost useless to plant or sow anything wind generrally from the North

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Wedensday 19th

Still unwell and unable to do much but work a little on the yard.

Thirsday 20

According to appointment I went to the River to meet Mrs. I and the children who were expected to be there in care of Mr. Adamson, on his way here to do some carpenter and cabinet work.

Was delayed At the River untill about 3 oclock, in which time the S. B. Martha came up and landed for wood. I in coming over had much difficulty and some danger on account of the high water and drift which abounded. Did not reach home untill after dark, but was much pleased and I trust thankful to find our family all again together. On our way home took with us to the Miss. Mary Childs who had been on a visit to her mother. Day warm but no rain.

Friday & Saturday 21 & 22d Spent with Mr. Adamson on fixing a portion of the yard fence, on this evening Mr. Hamilton returned with the wagon from St. Joseph and brough a letter from Mrs Hall & also from Mr. Littlejohn. The latter was quite refreshing as it brought enformation of a pleasing revivel and also bore the evident tokens of the influences of the spirit of God on the heart of the Individual who wrote.

Sabath. 23rd. Unable to preach and much of the time in bead. My Cough is sever and is rather increasing.

Monday 24th. Assisted some at the yard and also to assist Mr. A. in commencing

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on improvement on the steeple which is very necessary to keep the water out. But was not able to do much.

Tusday 25 Engaged in teaching all the day while Mr. Hamilton went to the woods to seek some timber to make palings No Rain yet and very cool

Wedensday 26th. Taught School as on yesterday, while in School an old man came in over 60 years of age, I would suppose, and it was pleasing to see one of the Schollars, a child of perhaps 4 or 5 years old read to him intelligtelly in his own language.

Thirsday 27 On last evening our cows were missing, the fence having been put down (by we suppose by some mischievous Indians. And this morning I started to seek them, leaving soon after 4 oclock while all were yet sound asleep. I soon got on the trail of the cattle, and it was evident they had been driven by some Indians After much search on foot and on horse, aided in part by their track through the prairie, I found all the cattle, and reached home about 8 oclock much rejoiced. God wonderfully restrains these poor people from doing us and our property harm. How easy it would be for them to destroy our property and all we have! So much pain in my head and so unwell that I got but little done except a little at the yard with the assistence of Mr. [Dwill], and Mr. Adamson in the afternoon. In the evening some rain very gentle & refreshing. It was thought that the commet was seen last night.

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Friday 28th.

So much pain in the head from my ride yesterday, and unwell that I was not able to do much except assist some about the work on the farm and about the yard

Saturday 29

Assisted in preparing some ground and planting some potatoes and in the afternoon went with Mr. Hamilton to the encampment of the Oregon emigrants, where he preached and I made a few remarks in conclusion. From siting on the ground and being exposed to the wind I became very could and after returning home was taken with severe vomiting which continued at interval through the night. I was very sick all the night but was rather stupid from Laidnum.

Sabath.

Lay all day in bed very weak, and feble, but not suffering much pain

Monday may 1st Well enough to teach school fer Mr. Hamilton today but feell squeamish and rather unwell this evening. Some appearence of rain this evening.

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Friday June 23d.

At noon while reading the late news of the Gen. Assemb Mr. Ferman rode in haste to the door saying he wished Mr. H. and I to go ove quick as a little boy had been badly injured in the mill he though most likely killed. We went over, we found that but one leg was injured. It had been drawn in between the large [trenip] wheal and one of the sills of the mill [XXXXX] a pass of not made if any over a half inch and was most terribly brusian. The bone as well as the flesh being crushed to pieces. There was no possibility of saving the foot and low part of the leg, and it was so brusised that we had to cut it a little below the knee, cutting off both bones afresh and the fleshy part of the calf. Having no surgons saw we got a saw sharped up which Mr. Tinker had fer sawing Iron. It was a most severe operation but the little fellow stood it well

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