Brought forward $265 29 From the Young Men's Society in Middletown Upper Houses, by the Rev. From the Female association in Williamsburgh, for a child to be named HENRY 10.00 From the Young Ladies Society in do. 8.00 From sundry individuals, 9 75 From the Female Association in Goshen, (Mass.) -27 75 12.00 90 10 2.39 From the Female Associations in Charlemont, by the Rev. Joseph Field, 19. By the Rev. Dr. Hyde the following sums; viz. From charity boxes in Williamstown, From From do. in Lanesborough, do. in Lenox, 6 18 3 25 294-12 $7 From the Female Association in Westboro', (Mass.) a semi-annual payment, for a child to be named ELISHA ROCKWOOD, out of respect to their pastor, by Miss Hannah Fay, Treasurer, 20. From the Foreign Mission Society of Norwich and Vicinity, for educating By the Rev. Nathan Perkins, Jun. an agent appointed with particular refer Contributions at Pelham, $4 10; Suuderland, $23 73 At South Hadley, $32 09, Conway, $36 12, At Belchertown, $15 49; Greenfield, $37 40, From the Amherst Charitable Society, by L. Dickinson, Treasurer, 29 39 From the Young Men's Charitable Society in Conway, 61 75 From the Conway Female Society for promoting Christianity, by Louisa 19 03 From the Belchertown Charitable Society, 6 50 At Cummington, $10 07; Goshen, $27 20, At Williamsburgh, At Whately, $19 46; Wendell, $20 75, At Hatfield, $28 16; Hadley, $55, At Eufield, 18 00; Southampton, $38 17, 15.00 2.00 From the association of females at Greenfield, by Mrs. Sarah Stearns, From a female praying society in Northfield. 14.50 24 86 From a female praying Society in Amherst, by Mrs. Sally Church, From a young lady on a visit to Hadley, 1 00 6 25 2.50 14 23 From A. Jakeway of Brattleboro', (Ver.) a piece of cloth valued at From sundry persons, various articles of jewelry sold at 22. From the Juvenile Society in Acworth, (N. H.) by the Rev. Phineas Cooke, 25. From the Female Cent Society in North Killingworth, (Con.) by the Rev. Dr. Chapin, From little girls in the school of Miss Abigail Fales in Wrentham, 29. From a charity-box kept at the monthly concert of the Old South church, Boston, for a child to be named JOSHUA HUNTINGTON, out-of respect to their pastor, by Miss Harriet Moore, Total donations received in September, $2,907 11. 10 00 6 75 30 00 $1,388 81 JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MISSIONARIES IN CEYLON, CONTINUED FROM P. 425. Sabbath, June 9, 1816. Attended church. Two natives, who had been priests of Bo dh, were baptised. One of them was by far the most learned and influential character among those of the Boodhist religion. He visited the Burman empire on official business; was highly honored by the king and priests of that country; and enjoyed superior advantages for improvement. Soon after his return, the information he had acquired appeared to be the means of leading him to a successful examination of the Christian religion. He is now qualifying himself to preach the Gospel. It is believed, that his conversion will have extensive influence upon the professors of the Boodhist religion. 11. One of the brethren, by invitation, visited Sir Alexander Johnstone. Sir A. conversed very freely on the state of things at Jaffna in a missionary point of view; stated what steps he had taken, and what he thought necessary to be done to civilize the people. In his view they should be Christianized, and have some civil privileges. Of the 60 millions of native British subjects in India, the inhabitants of this Island are the only people who enjoy the right of trial by jury. This right was secured to them through the instrumentality of Sir A. He is preparing for us a large map of the district of Jaffna, on an improved plan, which must be very useful if we settle at Jaffna. He made inquiries concerning the Prudential Committee, and gave encouragement that he should address a letter to them on the state of things at Jaffna. 12. A Boodhist priest called on us; says he would throw off his robes if he could get rice. These priests frequently visit the missionaries. 14. This morning we received a very favorable answer from government to our petition. This well corresponds with the series of blessings which we have experienced, in the prosecution of our important undertaking. For this will we thank God and take courage. At a special meeting, resolved, that Messrs. Warren, Richards, Meigs, and Poor establish themselves in the Jaffna district, as soon as it is practicable, two at Tillipally and two at Batticotta. These places are eight or ten miles from each other, and about the same distance from Jaffnapatam. Appointed a committee to ascertain how soon we can go to Jaffna by water, and whether it is expedient to open a school for females. 15. We learn that one Baptist and four Methodist missionaries have arrived at Galle. The former is to join brother Chater. 17. This morning the missionaries of different denominations in Columbo, twelve in number, took breakfast at brother Chater's. We resolved to meet once a fortnight at each other's houses; have a short and appropriate address, and free conversation on missionary subjects. At our meeting for business, we divided our number with reference to the two stations at Jaffna; brothers Richards and Meigs at one, Warren and Poor at the other. In the evening took tea at Sir Alexander's. He very politely presented us with several literary curiosities, which we hope to send to America. Have ascertained that we cannot go to Jaffna safely by water short of two or three months. 18. We have been refreshed by receiving letters from America by the Fawn, which has recently arrived at Bombay. As only the Tamul or Malabar language is spoken at Tillipally and Batticotta, we have dismissed our Portuguese instructor. 22. Resolved, that brother Warren go on to Jaffna by land as soon as he can prepare. We think that much may be done by him to facilitate our settlement at Jaffna and Batticotta. 24. Yesterday received a letter from brother Newell, in which he very strongly urges, that a part of our number should go to Travancore, if possible. We have attentively considered his suggestions, and are unanimously of the opinion, that, if we establish a mission at Jaffna, four missionaries at least are wanted. We consider an establishment at Jaffna to be one of the most effectual means of opening the way for us to the continent. 25. Received a kind letter from Dr. Carey, in answer to ours forwarded by the Dryad. Sister Poor opened the school on the 19th instant. Twentyfive scholars are engaged. Most of them are from the first families in the settlement. 27. Mr. Griffiths, a Baptist missionary, with his wife arrived in town from Galle. His services were much needed to strengthen the hands of brother Chater. 28. Addressed a short letter to government, requesting a grant of the public buildings and lands at Tillipally and Batticotta. 29. Received an answer from the Governor through the Rev. G. Bisset, stating, that his excellency cannot comply with our request, until the premises at T. and B. shall have been examined and valued, and the result presented to him signed by the collector of the Jaffna district. He however gives us such assurances, as justify us in making arrangements for our settlement at the two stations. He has written to the collector in our behalf. July 1. This morning the missionaries at Columbo held their meeting at our house. Brother Chater gave a short address from the following words, "All hail." His object was to show, that our agreement, in regard to the great doctrines and duties of Christianity, lays a proper foundation for the salutation in the text. We then spent an hour in conversation; concluded, that when we have exhausted those subjects on which we agree, we will discuss those on which we differ. At 4 o'clock P. M. after we had united in prayer, brother Warren took leave of us and set out on his journey to Jaffna in a palankeen. In the evening, we attended the monthly prayermeeting. These are interesting seasons: for as missionaries we feel that many are laboring together with us in the most effectual manner. 16. The brethren attended the missionary meeting at the Rev. Mr. Harvard's. Brother Richards preached from, "Whatsoever thine hand findeth to do, do it with thy might." 18. Received a letter from brother Warren, dated Jaffnapatam, 12th instant, which was the day after his arrival. He had a very prosperous journey, and was kindly received by the principal characters to whom he had been recommended. He is now residing in the family of J. M. Mooy art, Esq. who is a very distinguished friend to missions. 19. Having complied with brother Chater's request, made a few weeks ago,to assist him in ordaining Mr. Seirs as a missionary,the brethren set apart this evening to examine him on the subjects of experimental and doctrinal religion, with reference to his ordination. We have satisfied ourselves in regard to his qualifications. 30. This morning sister Bardwell was safely delivered of a son. Thus not only common but special mercies call forth our gratitude, and prompt us to greater diligence in the service of our Master. This evening three soldiers, with whom we have frequently conversed in reference to their joining our church, visited us. We informed them, that we should now consider them as candidates to be admitted at the next communion season, if no objection should be made. Sabbath, 21. This evening three persons were baptised and received into brother Chater's church; two soldiers and a native physician. Monday, 22. This evening Mr. Seirs was ordained in brother Chater's chapel in the Pettah. Sermon by brother Meigs; consecrating prayer by brother Richards; charge by brother Chater,and right hand of fellowship by brother Poor. Many circumstances conspired to render it an interesting and solemn season. Brother Seirs, we may hope will be a useful missionary. He is of Dutch and Cingalese descent, and is well acquainted with the Dutch, Cingalese and Portuguese languages. He converses intelligibly in English. Tuesday, 23. Several persons have applied to join our native school. But as they are of a different cast from those who now belong to the school, they could not be admitted without much difficulty. Received a letter from brother Warren; he has visited Tillipally and Batticotta; finds that the public buildings, a house and church at each place, are in a ruinous state. The plan and valuation of the premises will soon be sent on to government by the collector. It excites much interest in those parts, that missionaries are coming among them. Tuesday, 30. Attended the missionary breakfast at the Rev. Mr Armour's. Heard an address from the words, "Go ye out into all the world," &c. Sent letters to the Rev. Messrs. Ringletaube and Loveless at Madras. Wednesday, 31. Received a letter from brother Warren, containing some, estimates of the expenditures requisite for putting the dwelling houses at T. and B. into a habitable state. Sabbath, Aug. 4. Held our communion. Received two soldiers of the 73d regiment into our church. This day the Columbo Bible Society met at the king's house. After a very excellent and appropriate sermon in the Fort church, by the Hon. and Rev. T. J. Twisleton, a report was read by the Rev. G. Bisset, secretary to the Society, containing much information on the moral state of the Island. It appears, that the new Cingalese version has been printed as far as the Epistle to the Romans. The printing business has been advanced very rapidly since it has been superintended by the Rev. Mr. Harvard, one of the Wesleyan missionaries. It was gratifying to hear from the lips of his Excellency the Governor, who is the President of the Society, that no part of his official duty gave him more pleasure, than that which related to the propagation of Christianity among the inhabitants of the Island. Monday, 5. All the Wesleyan Missionaries on the island, being ten in number, are now holding a conference at this place. We learn, that three of them are to be stationed at Jaffna, one at Trincomale, one at Batticalo, two at Galle, one at Matura, and two at Columbo. We consider it a pleasing circumstance, that we have an opportunity of knowing from personal acquaintance, that they are men who appear to be zealously engaged in the good cause. From a letter just received from brother Warren, it appears doubtful whether either of the houses at T. and B. can be repaired before the rainy season commences in that part of the island; i. e. before the latter part of October. If not, we shall doubtless reside at Jaffnapatam, where we shall be favorably situated for commencing the study of the Malabar language. Tuesday, 6. Resolved, that brothers Warren and Poor occupy the station at Tillipally; and brothers Richards and Meigs that at Batticotta. Thursday, 8. Learned that the Government has received a communication from the collector at Jaffna, concerning the public buildings at T. and B. We may hope soon to have an answer to our letter, requesting a grant of the lands, churches, &c. Thursday, 22. Received another letter from brother Warren, containing information on various subjects. We experience many advantages in consequence of his being at Jaffna before us. Sabbath, Sept. 1. Communed with Brother Chater's church; the number of communicants 19. At this meeting brother and sister Bardwell dedicated their child, named Horatio Furbush, to the Lord by baptism. This was done in the Baptist place of worship; a circumstance worthy of notice, as it shows that our Baptist brethren here have a liberality of sentiment that is worthy the imitation of others. In the evening, we attended at the dedication of a new church in the Pettah. It has been built partly by subscription, and partly at the expense of government. The Hon. and Rev. T. J. Twisleton has had the superintendence of the business. The sermon at the dedîcation was preached by the Rev. G. Bisset. This church is designed mainly for the benefit of those who speak the Portuguese language. Occasionally, however, there will be preaching in it in the Cingalese and English languages. A few weeks ago, we attended the preaching of the first anniversary sermon of the opening of the new Malabar church. A collection was made to assist in building a school-house for the Malabar congregation. In this church, the Rev. C. David is now preaching. In the course of a few weeks, a new church, built by the Wesleyan missionaries, will be completed and dedicated to the service of God. In view of these things, every disciple of Jesus, in this land of pagan darkness, cannot but exclaim with peculiar emotions of gratitude and joy, "How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord, God of Hosts." Monday, 2. Engaged a dhony, or small vessei, to carry our families and all our effects to Jaffna, for the sum of 350 rix dollars. Saturday, 7. Received a letter from brother Warren, in which he informs us that he is making every exertion to put the houses at T. and B. into a habitable state before the rains. He assigns several important reasons for taking actual possession of the places immediately, even though we may be unable at present to obtain a deed or lease of them. The expenses for temporary repairs will not much exceed the sum we should be obliged to pay for house rent, if we should reside 10 or 12 months at Jaffnapatam. Sabbath, 8. Received a letter from Capt. Titcomb, the supercargo of the Dryad, dated off Diamond harbor, Aug. 3, containing much interesting information. He informs us, that he has forwarded to us by way of Bombay, letters from America. We are very anxious to receive them; as intelligence from our native country is most grateful to us. Monday, 9. This morning the missionary meeting was held at our house; brother Griffiths gave an address. Friday, 13. Dismissed our native school; have much satisfaction in reviewing this part of our work; our services in the school have been wholly gratuitous. Monday, 16. Two of the brethren waited on Sir Alexander Johnstone. He is much in favor of our settling at Jaffna. Wednesday, 18. Dismissed our European school, having continued it three months. Busily employed in packing our furniture, &c. to put on board the dhony. Sent a letter to the governor, in which we expressed our thanks for the many favors he has shewn us since we have been on the island; and informed him that we were about to remove to Jaffna. Fearing that our families, together with our furniture, &c. cannot be conveniently conveyed in one dhony to Jaffna, brother and sister Poor have concluded to take passage in a small boat, in company with Mr. Wilkins, a respectable merchant belonging to this place. Friday, 20. Early this morning brother and sister Poor left Columbo for Calpentyn, about 80 or 90 miles distant, at which place they expect to tarry a day or two, and then take another boat and proceed to Jaffnapatam. 25. Brother and sister Richards, and brother and sister Meigs took passage to Jaffna in the dhony with our goods. On leaving Columbo we received many proofs of kindness and tokens of affection from the people, par |