^/^-, -* ;i»62SS!»B*'-' "•■ 
 
1 -&. JM-^^- 
 
 
 
 ^,VX 
 
 % 
 
 PRINCETON, N. J. 
 
 yP)r.inf/r^//y X\.T\A\AVK-C\ 
 
 Skflf.. 
 
 Diri 
 Sefth 
 
 Xur: 
 
 I 
 
 ^ 
 
 '% 
 
THE 
 
 JTirSt itleport 
 
 OF THE 
 
 iB®^iBii) ®w ma^^a®: 
 
 •9 
 
 TO THE 
 
 GENERAL ASSEMBLY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
 
 FOR 1817. 
 
 PHILADtLPHIA : 
 PBINTED BY JOHK W. SCOTT, 
 
 NO. 36 NORTH SIXTH STREET. 
 
 June 1817. 
 
The Board of Missions, chosen and appointed by the As* 
 sembly for the ensuing year, are : viz. 
 
 Of Philadelphia and its vicinity, Rev. Drs. Green, Alex- 
 ander, Wilson, Janeway Miller and Neiil ; Rev. Messrs. 
 Potts and Skinner; and Messrs. Boudinot, Hazard, Connelly, 
 Smith, Ralston, and Bayard. 
 
 Of New York, Rev. Dr. Romeyn, Messrs. Lenox, Rogers,, 
 Bethune, Caldwell and Lewis. 
 Of the Synod of Geneva, Rev. David Higgins. 
 
 — of Albany, Rev. Jonas Coe. 
 
 — of N. Y. and N. J. Rev. Jas. Richards, d.d. 
 
 — of Philadelphia, Rev. Robert Cathcart. d.d. 
 
 — of Pittsburgh, Rev. Elisha Macurdy. 
 
 — of Virginia, Rev. John H. Rice. 
 
 — ^ of Kentucky, Rev. James Blithe, d.d. 
 
 - — of Ohio, Rev. Robert G. Wilson. 
 
 — of N. Carolina, Rev. James Hall, d.d. 
 
 — .. of S. Carolina and Georgia, Rev. Andrew 
 
 Flinn, d.d. 
 
 OFFICERS OT THE BOARD. 
 
 J. J. Janeway, President. T. H. Skinner, Secrelanjl 
 
THE 
 
 irirst 3Xtpovt 
 
 OF THE 
 
 5B©^iED ©IF mag^a®: 
 
 THE Board of Missions present to the General Assem- 
 bly the result of their labours during the last year. 
 
 The Board organized their body immediately after the 
 rising of the last Assembly, by chosing their officers ; and as 
 the Assembly had changed their style from that of a Committee 
 to that of a Board of Missions, and invested them with a cor« 
 responding enlargement of powers, they deemed it proper to 
 chj^nge the name of one of their officers from that oi Chair' 
 man to that of President. 
 
 Agreeably to tlie direction of the last Assembly, the Board 
 took measures for the formation of Auxiliary Missionary 
 Societies throughout the bounds of our Church. An address 
 was prepared and printed, in which the subject is distinctly 
 and fully laid before the churches ; and their attention is so- 
 licited to it by considerations that were deemed suitable to 
 impress them with the great importance of such societies, and 
 to show what extensive benefits might result from an active 
 and efficient co-operation in the missionary concern throughout 
 the whole extent of our Church. In connexion with the 
 establishment of such Societies, the Board judged it of con- 
 sequence to endeavour to promote the formation o{ Missiona- 
 ry Associations in every congregation, for aiding the funds 
 of the Societies ; and tlierefore recommended them in their 
 address. To facilitate the business of forming these institu- 
 tions, draughts of constitutions were published in connexion 
 with the address, on principles calculated to secure unity of 
 operation, as well as activity of exertion, A few copies of 
 the address have been sent by mail within the bounds of all 
 
the Presbyteries, accompanied by a circular letter, inviting 
 their attention to and co-operation in the missionary concern. 
 The remaining copies, tied up in bundles, have either been 
 forwarded, or are subject to the order of the Presbyteries ; 
 and it is hoped that those Presbyteries which have not re- 
 ceived their quotas, will not fail to have them transmitted and 
 distributed among the congregations under their care. 
 
 A copy of the address and constitutions will be submitted 
 to the inspection of this Assembly ; and should the plans 
 proposed by the Board meet with their approbation, it is be- 
 lieved that it will contribute much to the successful adoption 
 of them, if this General Assembly were to call the attention 
 of the churches to the subject, and solicit their aid, in any 
 manner the Assembly may deem proper. Let it, however, 
 be observed, that the design of the Assembly in directing 
 these measures, was, not to lessen, but extend the operations 
 of the Board, to increase, not diminish xhtix funds. They 
 therefore suggest, that, at the commencement of this business, 
 it will be important for the Assembly, while they leave the 
 Presbyteries or Societies to adopt what plan they judge proper 
 for procuring money, to direct them so to manage their con- 
 cerns as not to interfere with the annual collections made ia 
 the churches for the Assembly's missionary fund. 
 
 Several missionary appointments were made by the Board, 
 which will be noticed when the journals of the Missionaries 
 shall be reviewed. 
 
 Mr. John Monteith* was appointed a missionar}', three 
 months in Detroit, and one month on missionary ground on 
 his way. On the 2rth of June Mr. Monteith arrived at De- 
 troit ; and he states he was so cordially received by the people, 
 that it appeared unnecessary to bear any longer the character 
 of a missionary. He is now settled in that place, and has en- 
 tered on a wide field of usefulness. " The profaneness of the 
 soldiers," says Mr. Monteith " exceeds any thing I ever im- 
 agined. There is no Sabbath in this country. But what is 
 remarkable, though I have openly and plainly held forth the 
 
 * Lat«)y a Student in the General Assembly's Theological Senuoarjr. 
 
peculiar doctrines of the gospel, both in public and in private, 
 I am apparently treated with the greatest respect by all de- 
 scriptions of people, and have not heard a word spoken against 
 religion. It meets with no opposition, but the practice of the 
 people." 
 
 In his second communication he says, "I am about 200 
 miles distant from any Presbyterian minister. I feel the 
 weight of my task. Ignorance and wickedness prevail around 
 me, and there is scarce an individual to give me assistance. 
 All the Christian zeal perceivable is among the Methodists. 
 The army is without a chaplain, and I have more than I am 
 able to perform. My success has been great in reforming 
 morals ; but no conversions have appeared. I am not at all dis- 
 couraged, but am anxious to have assistance. Salvation be- 
 longeth to the Lord-" 
 
 As Mr. Monteith travelled in public conveyances, he had 
 no opportunity for acting as a missionary in his way to De- 
 troit. But he obtained from the people of that place after 
 agreeing to settle among them, their consent to spend a month 
 in missionary labours in the destitute settlements in the sur- 
 rounding region. He accordingly visited Raisin, the Rapids 
 of the Miami, Sandusky, Cleaveland, and other places, and 
 preached very frequently. This tract of country through 
 which he pnssed, he deems very suitable missionary ground ; 
 and he is of the opinion that it is important immediately to oc- 
 cupy it by our missionaries. If a missionary sent to that 
 country were acquainted with the French language, he might 
 do good by conversing with the French privately. " After 
 much inquiry," he says, " I have not been able to find a sin- 
 gle French Bible in the place : and speaking of the settlements 
 of Fort Meigs and Raisin, he observes, they "are utterly 
 neglected, yet I am confident that Societies could now be form- 
 ed in both places. The people are anxious for it." 
 
 The Rev. John Devanport spent two months in mis- 
 sionary labour, on a route prescribed by the Presbytery of 
 Onondaga. He travelled 257 miles, preached on 8 Sabbaths, 
 delivered 19 lectures, visited 102 families, attended 2 concert 
 prayer-meetings, and 2 sacramental seasons. He likewise 
 
6 
 
 assisted in organizing 2 churches, consisting each of 18 mem- 
 bers, and baptized 8 adults, and 1 1 infants. The assemblies, 
 both on the Lord's day and on week days, were generally 
 large, and in some instances exceedingly solemn : and there 
 is ground to believe, he thinks, that the word dispensed was, 
 in a variety of instances, attended with the energy of the Holy 
 Spirit on the hearts of numbers. 
 
 The Rev. Andrew Rawson discharged the duties of his 
 mission for two months in the Holland Purchase. As his 
 report is short and interesting, it will be read. 
 
 THE LETTER OF MR. ANDREW RAWSON. 
 
 Bristol April, 29, 1817. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 I began my mission at Gainsville, on the Holland Purchase on the first 
 day of December last. Preached three sermons to a very solemn and attentive 
 congregation. In the evening God in very deed was present by the spiritual 
 operations of his Holy Spirit. Two yeung persons were brought tasee their 
 deplorable state while destitute of an interest in Christ. Menday, preached two 
 sermons and attended a prayer-meeting. This day two more were convicted. 
 Tuesday, rode to Orangeville number nine second range. Wednesday, helped in- 
 stall Hypocrates Rose. By the advice of Presbytery returned immediately to 
 Gainsville. On my return, Hound one of the persons alluded to above rejoicing 
 in God through Jesus Christ our Lord, From this period to the end of the 
 month I laboured day and night in preaching, praying, expounding scripture, in 
 visiting from house to house, in solving doubts and answering questions, and ex- 
 hortmg Christians to pray, and sinners to flee from wrath to come. As 1 lived 
 but a day's journey from this place, being greatly fatigued I discontinued my la- 
 bours for a few days. In January returned to Gainsville, found the good people 
 at a prayer-meeting. Pursued the same course for fifteen days, as I did the last 
 month. All our meetings were truly solemn. Some rejoiced in the glorious 
 way of salvation through Christ ; individuals scoffed, while others felt that with- 
 out an interest in Christ they must eternally perish. Returned and attended 
 Presbytery and Synod. In March I finished my mission. My labours were 
 confined to Gainsville, Nunday, Attica, Perry and Warsaw. At Warsaw a re- 
 vival commenced about the first of the year. Since then about 40 have en- 
 tertained hopes in Christ. There are hopeful appearances of a revival at Perry, 
 a town joining Warsaw. In two months I preached fifty-nine sermons, attended 
 seven prayer-meetings, five conferences, administered the Lord's Supper twice, 
 received fourteen to the communion of the Church— two by letters, twelve by 
 examination ; baptized eight adults, four children, and two infants. In Gains- 
 ville left some, who had embraced hopes of mercy, some under convictions, and 
 many seriously disposed. Was treated with the greatest degree of kindness. 
 Had'the prayers of many, 1 trust, that God would direct me to that region again. 
 This from your's in our common Lord, 
 
 ANDREW RAWSON- 
 
Mr. Phxnehas Camp, lately a student in the Assembly's 
 Theological Seminary at Princeton, was appointed by the 
 Presbytery of Hudson to itinerate six weeks as a missionary 
 within their bounds. He laboured in a region of country on 
 the Delaware surrounding the junction of the States of New- 
 York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The preaching of this 
 young missionary to a people who had been for many years 
 destitute of the stated means of grace, and had not had the 
 sacrament of our Lord's Supper administered among them 
 for eleven years, was eminently blessed by the Great Head of 
 the Church. A powerful work of divine grace began with the 
 commencement of his labours among that people, and was 
 rapidly carried on during the short time he continued to min- 
 ister to them in holy things. Six individuals were impressed 
 the first Sabbath on which he preached ; and before he left 
 them, between one and tzvo hundred were awakened to a sense 
 of their need of Christ. Of these a considerable number 
 were rejoicing in their Redeemer, or had obtained a comfort- 
 able hope ; but as the sacrament of our Lord's Supper was 
 not administered by Mr. Camp, the precise number prepared 
 to make a public profession of religion, could not be ascer- 
 tained. 
 
 This people were very urgent in their solicitations to your 
 Missionary to settle among them and become their stated 
 Pastor ; but, feeling a preference for a missionary life, he de- 
 clined : and as they nominally at least belonged to the Dutch 
 Reformed Church, he prudently avoided doing or saying any 
 thing to alienate them from their connexion with that sister 
 church, and advised thera to choose for their Pastor a minis, 
 ter of their own denomination. 
 
 The labours of Mr. Camp, were abundant; for in the 
 course of six weeks, he preached and lectured 46 times. 
 
 The Board presume the Assembly will be gratified with 
 the readingof some portions of his interesting journal. 
 
 EXTRACTS TROM THE JOURNAL OF MR. PHINEHAS CAMP. 
 
 Saturday. Sept. ai.— Concluding to preach at Carp<nier\ Point, otherwise 
 Mabatkamact, gave notice on the way that there would be preaching there on 
 the morrow. Arrived at a Mr. V F 's near the church, where I was hos- 
 pitably entatained, yet aot «o pleaeantly situaced as I tould wish, as the family 
 
8 
 
 talked Dutch continually, except when I was addressed. Was samewhat <!»«• 
 heartened on being told that very few persons would assemble on the morrow, 
 on account of the short notice; but still more at th€ history of the state of this 
 people. It is near il years since they have had the sacrament administered to 
 them, and during this period only occasional preaching; latterly scarce any, the 
 summer past, on one Sabbath only. They h ive had no meetings of their own 
 order for prayer or religious conversation for years ; iniquity reigns, and the love 
 of God appears in very few, and in these it is -waxed cold. 
 
 Sunday %%. — Went to church with trembling and a too faithless heart, im- 
 agining as Satan apparently reigned in the place, and there were no praying 
 people to assist me, that I should preach to closed ears and hardened hearts. 
 Preached a. m from 2d Cor. v. ao. Noiv then ive j.re ambassadors for Christ, t3'c. 
 to less than a hundred hearers, who though at first noisy and thoughtless, were 
 afterward more solemn. In the afternoon from Luke xiii 24. Strive to enter 
 in at the straight gate ; for many I say unto you •will stei ta enter in and shall not he 
 able Preached the last sermon extemporanei-msly, yet with more boldness and 
 freedom than in the forenoon. Observed that the hearers were very attentive, 
 but attributed it to the love of novelty. Returned from church much dejected 
 .with a view of my unworthiness. Thought I preached and felt like a child. 
 Was told that the people were pleased with my preaching • but how often is 
 this the case when no apparent good is done ? Thought I saw something fa- 
 vourable in a female during conversation with her in the house where I lodged.* 
 Warned her solemnly before retiring to rest. 
 
 Tuesday 24. — Prciched in the evening six miles distant in a place called 
 Peanpack, part of Mahakkamack congregation, from Rom. xiii. il . Some per- 
 sons impressed on the Sabbath came 6 miles to hear me. The Lord gave me 
 great boldness on this occasion- Every ear appeared to be open, and every mind 
 attentive, though at first they were, as they have usually been, somewhat light in 
 their behaviour. The people hung about me after sermon. Talked with them 
 for some time, till I was weary. One man from Mahak, was much melted down, 
 said he never heard so powerful a sermon as the last one on Sabbath ; that he 
 was too great a sinner to be pardoned. He is near 50 years old As he came 
 out of church, he said to one of his neighbours, " what do you think of the ser- 
 mon ?" His neighbour bursting into tears said, " how can we stand it any long- 
 er ?" Doubtless the Holy Spirit, and not the sermon pressed upon his soul. 
 Talked Solemnly with the family where I preached and lodged, who appeared 
 solemn. 
 
 Friday 27. — Visited a sick woman who was impressed with a sense of her 
 sins, but was ignorant of the way of salvation. Hundreds like her in this region, 
 for want of a teacher, die like the brutes. Preached in the evening at the house 
 of one of the persons impressed on the Sabbath, from Romans xii. I. 1 beseech 
 you therefore, hrethren, by the mercies of God, that you present ynur bodies a living sacri- 
 fice, holy, acceptable, Isfc. The house, though large, was full. As I rose to ad- 
 dress them, my feelings were of a mingled nature and such as I cannot describe ; 
 for it now seemed evident that a revival had commenced in this stupid congre- 
 gation. Preached with more freedom and less pain of the lungs than I expect- 
 ed. Seldom saw more strict attention paid to preaching Many wept and lin- 
 gered behind after sermon. Spoke to them a half hour longer. I perceived 
 many went away much impressed, who were unable or too tired to converse 
 with me. Was cheered to find one New England woman who said " she had 
 prayed for a revival in this place for four years." But the people seem to have 
 entirely cast off fear, and restrained prayer before God. Why is it that the Lord 
 has thus evidently blessed me a novice in his vineyard ? 
 
 Thursday, Oct. 3.— Rccrossed the Delaware, and preached in the evening in 
 Minisink congregation, where I had already preached four times on Sabbath and 
 Monday. The evening, I trust, was a profitable one to hearers and preacher. 
 My text was Romass xii. I . / beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of Go(jj 
 
 * She has since been under great distress, dating it from this conversation. 
 
thai you, ^sSfc. It sectned as if the fear of God fell upon the people. Many pres- 
 sed after sermon, confessing themselves sinners, enquiring luhat thty must do to be 
 savitd? One man wept aluud like a child ; one woman of 70, and three young 
 women, with infants in their arms, came to enquire. A father and son. They 
 came also earnestly bc;^^'"^ "^^ '" settle among them as their Pastor. Promis- 
 ed to preach occasion;illy among them. 
 
 Friday \. — RLturncd to Mahakkamack 11 miles distant, called on a sick 
 worrian. found her rejoicing in her Saviour —perceived her husband, who has 
 been far, very far from all that is good, to be under convictions; while I coil'* 
 versed and priyed with them, he shook and sobbed like a child. This was 
 very refreshing to my soul. Preached this evening to a large number in church 
 from Matt, xviii. 4,3. The .strictest attention was paid to the discourse, groans 
 and tears were discernible in several : church being cold could not stay to talk 
 with them. 
 
 Sunday 6. — Preached to a large and solemn as^emMy, from Hosea xiil. 9. 
 Israel, thou hast destroyed thystlf, but in me is thy help i and from zd Cor. vi %. 
 Behold noiu is the accepted time, behold X^c. Tears aiid anxiou' look-- were visible in 
 many countenances. In the evening preached at a private hou->e much en uded 
 from Matt, xiii 16. But biessed arc your eyes, /or they see ; and your vjrs, for they 
 hear. The Lord on this occasion put a sharp scythe in my hands, and enabled 
 me to cut close and wide in the hearts of sinners and lukewarm professors, inso- 
 much that one said " if any thing would offend, this would " and another, '« that 
 every word appeared to be sent to the rijjht place." One man acknowledged 
 that the remarks upon careless hearers cut hmi down. This man is beginning 
 to hope in Christ. After lecture near ao persons staid to converse: several 
 deeply impressed ; one enquired " if it were safe for (■uch a drunkard and blas- 
 phemer as he had been to pr.iy unto God ?" 
 
 Monday evening 7. — Met with a pretty large number for concert of prayer* 
 in compliance with the custom rf most churches of Christendom. The people 
 had not heard of such a custom : some knew not what a prayer meeting was. 
 Addressed them from these words, T/jy kingdom come, thy ivill be done in earth-as 
 it is in heaven. Had two persons to pray with me. Many were impressed this 
 evening. 
 
 Wednesday 9. — Preached a funeral discourse to a large and solemn assembly 
 from Deut. xxxii 29 that tley ivere -wise, that they understood this, that ttey ivoulJ 
 consider their Utter end f Much weeping took place, and great anxiety appeared 
 in the features of many hearers. One woman went away exceedingly burdened 
 in soul: felt that she could not again enter his dwelling ; her eyes stream with 
 tears; she has no peace of mind.* Preached this evening 6 miles distant at 
 Ptanpack to a full house, from John iii. 3 Except a man be born again, he cannot 
 see the kingdom of God, Among the many who canii- to me after sermon to seek 
 relief to their burdened consciences, were a rrtan, his wife, and daughter, and aa 
 old lady of 70, who tremiiled under the terror of an alarmed conscience. 
 
 Saturday 12. — Called upon srme and heard of others awakened. Visited 
 the sick woman again ; she must soou die, but I think though apparently unaC' 
 quainted with him tili lately, will sleep in 'Jesus. People in the house were mov<d 
 to tears. Called on a womanf who has been remarkably dealt with. .She at- 
 tended on last Sabbath, was suddenly seized with inricstribable dread; felt her 
 soul veigl'.ed down as with a mountain, was much bewildered- thinks sl.e was 
 imprcfcsed by the sermon, but dont renumber any thing that particularly affected 
 her: recollects nothing but the text. On reading the Bible in the evening felt 
 the dread with increased weight, but recoilect.« no words nor sins that particu- 
 larly troubled her, could think of nothing but her own amazing agony; she felt 
 it more or less till Wednesday, when she attended a funeral, nturncd from this 
 in deeper misery. She forgot every thing but her distress — went on Thursday 
 
 * This ii'oman is notu exceedingly happy ; ber case is else^vhere related, 
 
 B 
 
10 
 
 f-vcnicgf to prayer-meeting ; approaching the house, heard a woman sing ; it 
 seemed to her ■:'. the voice of an angel : she forgot that she was left alone in the 
 Waggotj; got into the house she knew not how. Heard little that was said a: 
 the meeting ; returned home, swooned away in the chair : as she revived was 
 seized with a dreadful fit of shaking, screamed aloud with agony — all this while 
 sht felt not the least pain in body — was carried to bed, had there many shaking 
 liLS : continued in this state speechless by turns, yet all the while rational, till 
 toward m rning when the distress gradually abated, and jVy unspeakable ensued. 
 She can express her feelings now no otherwise than, that " her heart is 50 trans- 
 ported and light that she mint fly away." These words were sweet to her as 
 she revived, " Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will 
 give you rest." While she related her case to me, her countenance bespoke 
 great peace and ecstacy of mind ; her joy now, she says, weighs down her body as 
 i^uch as her agony did before. She is reported to have been a proud, stout- 
 hearted woman : but now none would think her so.— She has v/ished or prayed 
 that she might experience the new birth if it nearly cost her her life; her life 
 was nearly taken.* 
 
 Monlay 14. — Called on my way to Peanpack at several houses, and found 
 more newly awakened. Called on an opposer of the gospel, who treated me 
 kindly — answered his objections to the Bible. He fights against his convicted 
 conscience. 
 
 Thursday 17. — Preached opposite Milford this evening, in a place called the 
 Clove part of Mahakkamack congregation, to an assembly of people principally 
 composed of the most ignorant. Discoursed to them in a very plain manner 
 from Rom. v. 8. *' But God commendeth his Icve to us in that iihile -we tvere 
 yet sinners, Christ died for us." Talked with several after sermon, who were 
 pricked in their consciences. The plainer the gospel was preached to them, the 
 more powerful it seemed. It was preached this evening as unto babes. Every 
 word was devoured. 
 
 Friday 18. — Vlade several calls, found many without learning and without 
 Bibles. Engaged to send them some The only thing favourable was their 
 readiness to hear the word of God. Preached this evening near yellow Church, 
 to an attentive and solemn audience from Luke xv. 17, 18, 19. They enquired 
 When will you preach to us again .' will you not settle with us? They seem rea- 
 dy to pluck out as it "were their right eye, and give it me, 
 
 Friday 2j. — Preached this evening in the Clove from John iii. 3. Upwards 
 of 20 persons lingered behind to unburthcn their souls. Heard that now scarce 
 an oath is uttered in all the valley where they lately much abounded. The 
 people tvill ascribe the change to me. I am but the saw in the hand of Him 
 that shaketh it. 
 
 Sunday 27.— Preached to-day from Samuel, iii. 4. " Let us search and try 
 our luays, and turn again unto the Lord." And from Rev. iii, I5. l6. " I inoiv 
 thy -works, that thou art neither cold nor hot" &c. The hearers Were as usual 
 very serious and solemn. The last sermon was heavy and pointed as to profes- 
 sors, yet none seemed to take offence. In the evening from Matthew xii. 43 — 45. 
 *' when the unclean spirit harh gone out of a man, &c." This lecture was very 
 salutary to many who had hoped too soon. The effect was as I wished. Gave 
 them some of the evidences of grace in the heart to cling to. A large number 
 declared themselves earnest seekers of salvation. My heart rejoiced. 
 
 Friday, Aov. 8. — Spent the day in conversing with the sick and the awak- 
 ened. Preached this evening at Mahackkamack from Matt. x. 8, for purpose of 
 contribution. To night an opposer of the Gospel, with appearances of contrition, 
 presented me with a half dollar. Talked to-night with a young man who, under 
 agony of mind, swooned away in the waggon in which he rode; was taken out 
 
 •Sh 
 
 he "was confined to fur bed 10 days. Is still very^ very happy. 
 
11 
 
 lifeless. As he came to, he cried out, " O merciful Father ! " continued his prayer ; 
 returned home, and begged pardon of his friends for all his profancness and im- 
 morality ; now walks correctly. 
 
 Mr. William Blain * was appointed by the same Pres- 
 bytery ; and he laboured two months, chiefly in the towns of 
 Minisink and Deerpark. The result of this mission is, a de- 
 termination of two congregations to endeavour to raise a sum 
 sufficient to procure Mr. Blain's services for one year ; and at 
 the expiration of that time, if practicable, to retain him per- 
 manently. 
 
 The Rev. John Gloucester laboured three months, 
 among the Blacks in Philadelphia. He spent his time, he in- 
 formed the Board, in preaching and exhorting among them, 
 in visiting and conversing with families, and in distributing 
 Bibles and tracts among the poor. During the three months 
 he baptized twenty adults and ten children. Mr. Gloucester 
 thinks, from external appearances, there is a greater thirst 
 after the true knowledge of God among the people of colour, 
 than he ever witnessed before in this city. 
 
 Mr. Wells Andrews* performed a mission of two months, 
 from the Forks of the Susquehannah, along the east branch, 
 toward the line which divides Pennsylvania from New York. 
 He found the people in a very destitute situation in regard to 
 the means of grace. In two or three places there appeared 
 more than a common concern about religion, but in other 
 places the people were thoughtless and inattentive. The 
 pious generally expressed an earnest desire to be remembered 
 by the Board, and that missionaries might be sent to supply 
 their wants. Religion and morality were in a low state. It 
 is consolatory, however, to hear, that in this region of coun- 
 try two Bible Societies, one or two Missionary, and several 
 Tract Societies, have been recently formed ; and hence it is 
 supposed that the cause of piety and virtue is gaining ground. 
 " Many," observes Mr. Andrews, " who have long lived in 
 
 • Lately a student in the General Asembly's Theological Seminary. 
 
12 
 
 irreligion, now seem anxious to hear the truths of the Gospei 
 and willing to support it. Missionaries might probably b« 
 extremely useful in this part of the country.'* 
 
 The Rev. Jamits M^Gready itinerated, three months, in 
 the Indiana Territorji, in the counties of Clark, Harriison, 
 Gibson, and Knox. The labours of this missionary appear to 
 have been blest. The churches which a year ago he had 
 formed in the settlements where he then dispensed the words 
 of eternal life, were visited by him on this mission, and found 
 to be in an orderly and thriving condition : and in Princeton, 
 the seat of justice for Gibson county, he organized a church ; 
 which is likely to receive, by emigration from neighbouring 
 States, considerable accessions to "the goodly number of 
 respectable families of Presbyterians" already attached to it. 
 The sacrament of our Lord's supper was administered to this 
 church J and the occasion was solemn, and, Mr. M'Gready 
 hopes, comfortable to many. " In many places," your mis- 
 sionary observes, " where I preached, I hope the Lord is be- 
 ginning a good work, and, I trust, some souls have taken a 
 start for heaven, and some are solemnly rtsolving to fly from 
 the wrath to come." The Board request the indulgence of 
 the Assembly while they read a lew select portions of this 
 missionary's journal. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF THE REV. J AMES M'GREADY, 
 
 On Tuesday the l8th November, i8l6, I came to Corydon, the seat of Go- 
 vernment for the State of Indiana. I was solicited by the inhabitants cf the 
 town to preach that riight in the Court House. On Tuesday night accordingly 
 if preached. A very large and respectable congregation attended ; and conducted 
 with great decency and decorum. [ was informed the next day, that a certain 
 young gentleman of thi' place, a professed deist, complained of some of his com- 
 rades giving me particular information about him, as he said the sermon was 
 preached particuLirly to him, and all the wrong things that ever he had done 
 were told over to him ; but he expressed a great desire to hear mc again. 
 
 On Thursday the aoth, I rode iive miles to Dr. Frimmcr's, on the Indian 
 Creek, and preached to a very sober, attentive assembly. 
 
 On Tuesday the jist, I returned again to Corydon. Some persons in town 
 insisted upon my making another appointment to preach in the Court House 
 that night, as this same young gentleman most anxiously wished it. I told the 
 people that I was fatigued, and as I had appointed to preach on Saturday night, 
 and the Sabbath day, that would answer his purpose. They told me that he 
 wa. '"mpatient, and did not wish to wait until Saturday night. Accordingly I 
 Biadc an appointment, and preached that night. The young man attended, and 
 appeared to hear in solemn earnest ; and attended likewise with solemnity on 
 
13 
 
 Saturday night and on the Sahbath day. 1 preached four titiies in town while 
 i staytd; every time the Court House was crc^wdcd, and many seemed to hear 
 as for eternity, 'i he prospect at Corydon is phasing. I think the time is not 
 far ofl when a hopeful Church may he formed at that place 
 
 On Saturday March the 8th. and Sabbath the 9th, I preached at Mr. Arm- 
 stronjj's, in the Forks of Blue River, and administered the Sacrament of the 
 Lord's supper on the Sabbath. On Saturday, the appearance was h'lj'eful and 
 encouraging. Oij Saturday night a large rain fell, and raised the fo-k^ of the 
 river on each side of the place of mecing. On Sabbath morning a largp body 
 of people upon one side, came to the river-, chiefly.of ;hose who had atrend< <1 oh 
 preaching on Friday. A young man attempted to ride the river, hut feli from 
 his horse, and narrowly escaped drowning This deterred the others from at- 
 tempting it. However, the men went to the neighbouring houses and yot axes, 
 and felled large trees from eacii bank, so that their tops interiotked in the middle 
 of the river, and made a medium of pa.ssage by which they got over, and assisted 
 the females across. 
 
 During the action sermon there was amazing attention, and many tears 
 shed; during the communion, it was a tender, moving time, both with the com- 
 municants and many of the spectators. After the congregation was dismissed, 
 I spoke a few words to a small grope of the young communicants that were 
 standi g together, upon the st)Iemnity and importance of the work that they 
 had just been engaged in, and instantly fhcy were melted in a flood of tears. 
 
 On Sabbath night, I had to cross the river upon the trees which they had 
 fallen into it, and to ride five miles to John Mortim's- whe:e I had appointed to 
 preach that night. Although it was as dark a nighr as I ever oeheld, and 
 rained excessively hard, yet a large company attended. It was, indee.l, a solcma 
 llight, and, I be'icve, niai y heard as for eternity. After sermon, the niglit was 
 so dark, wet, and unromfortahle, that nearly all the females staid during the 
 night. I conversed with several of them, particularly about the state of their 
 soul'^, and found them solemnly impressed with a sense of their lost, ruined statr 
 out of Christ. I felt pained and distressed to leave them. What the event with 
 them will be, an infinite God only can tell. 
 
 On Tuesd.iy the list, Saturday the aid, and Sabbath the z.^d, I preached 
 at Jeffcrsonville, and administered the Sacrament of the Lord's supper on ths 
 Sabbath On each day there was great solemnity and tenderness with many. 
 On Friday night and Saturday night, we had a meeting for social prayer : thcst 
 were solemn times. We had comfortable tokens of the Divine presence. On 
 the Sabbath, the congregation was very large ; and during the action sermon 
 and in the time of communion, the attention was solemn, and many were in 
 tears. 
 
 The Rev. Samuel T. Scott was directed to labour as a 
 missionary, three months, in the Illinois Territory, at discre- 
 tion ; but owing to the severity of the weather last winter, he 
 was not al^le to spend more than one month in his mission. 
 He appears to have laboured with great diligence, and to have 
 preached whenever an opportunity offered. Mr. Scott in- 
 forms the Board, that a missionary capable of preaching in the 
 French language, might be very useful at Kaskaskias, and in a 
 route from that place to St. Louis through the American Bot- 
 tom. Of Mr. M'Gready he observes, "His heart is in his 
 work, and bis labours in the West have been greatly blessed." 
 
14 
 
 The Rev. Thomas E. Hughs itinerated, two months, in 
 the counties of Wayne, Richland, and Huron, in the State of 
 Ohio. In fulfilling his mission, Mr. Hughs travelled 740 
 miles, preached 54 sermons, administered the Lord's Supper 
 once, and baptized three children. Appearances were flat- 
 tering in several places where he preached ; for, on different 
 occasions, a divine power seemed to attend the word, and deep 
 impressions became visible on the minds of a number. In one 
 place after preaching, he conversed till past midnight with a 
 number of young people, who had followed him to the house 
 in which he lodged. 1 hey were anxiously enquiring what 
 they must do to be saved. The church he formed last year 
 at Apple Creek, was in so flourishing a state, that they expect- 
 ed soon to settle a minister. In Union Town, the people, 
 agreeably to his advice, formed themselves into a congrega- 
 tion. Mr. Hughs thinks the settlement of a stated missionary 
 in these counties would be productive of much good. 
 
 The Rev. Robert Semple itinerated on the headwaters 
 of the Muskingum, one month. Appearances were very 
 promising among the people to whom he dispensed the gos- 
 pel ; generally they were solemn, and often deeply impressed, 
 so that tears flowed freely. A few pussages from his journal 
 will show that considerable benefit has occured to the people 
 in this destitute region from the labours of this missionary. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF THE REV. ROBERT SEMPLE. 
 
 Tueiday, Sept. TO. 1816. — Rode 10 miles in the afternoon and preached, in 
 the evening to about 60 persons. Serious impressions were felt by a number, 
 who appeared unwilling to leave the place after the blessing was pronounced. I 
 spent the time with them in singing and conversing until near the middle of the 
 night. 
 
 Saturday Oct. 5. — Rode I a miles into the state of Ohio to a vacant congre- 
 gation. There we had appointed to preach and administer the ordinance of 
 tke Supper. Spent in this place Saturday, Sabbath and Monday. The assembly 
 was large and very solemn ; so many proposed to join the church, for the 
 first time, that we were kept on Saturday until dark. Among these were 8 Se- 
 cedcrs ; such a propos-il we had never seen in this country before. — Wednesday 9. 
 Rode 33 miles to a meeting of Presbytery. — Thursday lo. Rode 27 miles to 
 Sandy creek, collected a few families, and preached in the evening : The time 
 appeared remarkably solemn ; old and young were impressed, tears and sighs 
 flowed freely : in this place they have been but seldom visited by missionaries. 
 
 Sabbath 13. Rode ^ miles and preached two discourses to about lOO persons, 
 who mostly appeared deeply impressed, baptized z children ; in the evening rode 
 
15 
 
 two miles, and preached to about 60 people. The Spirit of God appeared to attend 
 his word in a remarkable manner. Such solemnity I have not witnessed for ma- 
 ny years. I spoke until worn out ; still they were unwilling to leave the place ; 
 many under pune;ent convictions were enquiring after the way of life. 
 
 Friday \%th. — Rode 5 niilcs to the congregation of Apple creek. Met with 
 Mr. Wood who preached on Friday and Saturday. Sabbath I preached and 
 assisted in administering the ordinance of the Supper. I preached on Saturday 
 evening to a very solemn and crowded assembly. The whole of this occasion was 
 very interesting, truly a time of refreshing to the people of God, and of deep con- 
 viction to many of the ungodly. Here we may say God is reviving his work, 
 and building up Zion in the wilderness. On leaving this place on Monday, the 
 scene was very solemn, many bathed in tears as they bade us farewell. 0,remem' 
 her our needy case ! was the cry. 
 
 The Rev. John Lyi.e has performed his mission of three 
 months in the region assigned. He itinerated in Bath, Flem- 
 ing, Mason, Nicholas, and some other counties in Kentucky. 
 His audiences were generally attentive, and sometimes con- 
 siderably impressed. In one place where he preached to 
 about 80 or 100, who were unusually solemn, and some much 
 affected, he witnessed a recurrence of one species of that 
 strange bodily exercise once so common in Kentucky. Two 
 women had the jerks. Mr. Lyle travelled 600 miles, preach- 
 ed 62 sermons, and delivered 10 shorter addresses. 
 
 The Rev. William Hodge itinerated, two months, in 
 the counties of Logan, Warren and Allen, Kentucky. The 
 labours of this missionary seem to have been attended with a 
 blessing. Occasionally he met with an inattentive audience, 
 and sometimes complains that his hearers were hard as the 
 rocks : but in general they were attentive, often solemn, and 
 not unfrequently deeply affected. In the course of his mission 
 he organized two churches ; one in Warren county, and the 
 other at Scottaville, the seat of justice in Allen county. At 
 Red river, he preached to a people which he states were for- 
 merly a respectable congregation under the pastoral care of 
 the Rev. Mr. M'Gready, and once favored v/ith a remarkable 
 revival of religion, but now in a desolate state, being rent to 
 pieces by the different sectaries in our country. 
 
 " The state of religion," he observes in the close of his 
 journal, "in this country is not flattering. Prejudices and 
 party spirit run high among the different denominations. 
 
16 
 
 Sabbath breaking, profane swearing, neglect of gospel mezTis^ 
 contempt of the authority of God and his word, characterize 
 the greater part of our population. But yet in various places 
 there are some earnestly inquiring what they shall do to be 
 saved ; and others, we trust, are added to the church of such as 
 shall be saved." The reading of a few portions of his journal 
 will finish our report on it. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF MR. WILLIAM HODGE. 
 
 Thursday, Fell. 2^ — I preached at Mr. Slosses, Logan. Here was a degree 
 of solemnity truly encouragit7g. This stttltment is within the bouiiJs of what 
 was foimerly a large Pre-byterian Congregation, known by the name of Jasper 
 River. The center of which is now the seat of Shakerism. However, a num- 
 ber of the old membf-rs stood firm, others by moving into this place seem to in- 
 dica-.e that God is about to form a church amongst them, .ifter admonishing 
 them to unite and use the means to come into an organized state, 1 proceeded on 
 my tour. Fridjy 29.— We had a very solemn meeting at Bibb's meetinghouse, 
 isaturday 30. — Preached at C<Jok's meeting-house to a lew unfeeling hearers. 
 Sobbath, Dec. I — I preached at Rus-civille tf a large assemhiy. An unusual at- 
 tention and solemnity reigned throujihont public worship. Monday z. — I preach- 
 ed ai Red river to a smad congregation. The greater part appeared unfeeling. 
 Tuesday 3.— I returned home, having been out 18 days, and preached 16 sermons. 
 December 12- — 1 set out on my third tour. Friday I^. — I had to fide. Satur- 
 day 14 Preached at Mr .Mr Rtyiiold's to a much larger congregation than form- 
 
 eily. This was an agreeable meeting ; close attention and deep solemnity were 
 visible. Hf're I baptized one infant. After sermon I was presented with a Pe- 
 tition from a number of subscribers in the neighbourhood of ScotrsviUe, express- 
 ing a unanimous desire to come into an organized state as a Presbyterian Church. 
 The names of those whom they wished to act as ruling eldera, were inserted in 
 -their Petition. On tatbath 15 — I prea<hcd at Scottsville to a crowded audience 
 remarkably solemn. Alter sermon the Petition was read, also the nomination 
 for Elders, with which all appeared pleased. Here I received one dollar 75 cts. 
 Monday 16. — Preached at widow rtlexander'* to a very attentive congregation. 
 Several young people were much affected. Here also the Petition was read, with 
 ■which all appeared pleased. Tuesday 17. — I preached at Mr. Garrison's to a large 
 congregation. This was a tender, weeping season Here were some of the 
 dear young pen; le who attended all my appoir.tments in the neighbouihoods 
 around, much affected under a sense of their lost and helpless state. After ser- 
 mon we proceeded to the organization of a Church in this place Upon enquiry, 
 I found that those nominated for Elders, had been ordained and acted as ruling 
 Elders for s^rveral years in regular Presbyterian Ci ngregations in the State of 
 Norch Carolina, and since their removal have walked worthy of their vocation. 
 They being chosen unanimously, upon their public declaration of willingness to 
 yield to the choice, and to tlfc utni' st of their abilities discharge the duties of 
 their office, after which by recognizing their ordination by admonition and 
 prayer, a Church was organized in this piace. 
 
 Sabbath 22. — I preached at Bow iinggreen to a large and attentive assembly. 
 Here 1 received four dollars tor missionary labours Monday 23. — I preached at 
 widov/ Skile's, (a widow indeed.) Here were many more than formerly. This 
 was an encouraging meeting, and awful fiknce and solemnity seemed to reign. 
 Here 1 received eight dollars for missionary service. Tuesday 24. Preached at 
 Wm. Skyle's ; the meeting was solemn. Wednesday 25 — 1 preached at widow 
 Reed's, Warren The congregation was l.irge, the meeting solemn and highly 
 agreeable. This is one of those places in the bounds of that Congregation wher? 
 
17 
 
 th€ Shakers now have their seat. Here 1 had the pleasure of organizing another 
 Church. After the ordination of Elders, I received four dollars for missionary 
 service. Thursday a6. — Preached a: Mr. Slosses's, Logan. Deep soul-concern and 
 much tenderness marked this meeting. Here I baptized three infants. Friday 
 47. — I preached at Bibb's Meering-hou<e to a few solemn hearers. Saturday 18.— 
 1 preached at Col. M'Goodvvin'o to a large Assembly. The Spirit of the Lord 
 was graciously present. .A very pleasing solemnity and tenderness spread over 
 the congregation. Sabbjtb 29 — I preached at Russelville. The weather was 
 somewhat intemperate, consequently the congregation not so large as formerly, 
 but the meeting was agreeable, ."^n unusual attention and solemnity was evident 
 throughout the whole of divine worship. 
 
 The Rev. William Woods, who was appointed a mission.* 
 ary,for two months, at and in the vicinity of Upper and Lower 
 Sandusky, has performed a mission of one and a half months, 
 being prevented by sickness from fulfilling the whole term. 
 He travelled 300 miles, and preached and instructed in families 
 as often asopportunity offered. His audiences were generally at- 
 tentive, and sometimes very solemn. "In this vast wilderness," 
 he says, " are thousands of precious souls perishing for lack of 
 knowledge; and many of them, sensible of their need of instruc- 
 tion, are crying to every missionary, Come over and help us." 
 
 The Rev. Samuel Boak itinerated in fhat tract of coun- 
 try which lies between Engle's or Pepper's Ferry, on New 
 River, and Dandridge, East Tennessee. His term was only 
 one month ; yet he preached 27 times, besides travelling 435 
 miles. " In this route, says your missionary, I distributed 
 29 Testaments among 29 families, who were utterly without 
 the Sacred Suriptures and anxious to have them. Five 
 hundred Bibles, I think, would not be suffitient to afford one 
 for each family that might be found on this route who would 
 be glad to receive them and who are destitute. I hope they 
 will receive a small supply from the East Tennessee and Ab- 
 ingdon Bible Societies. I also distributed 100 religious tracts 
 published by the Philadelphia Tract Society, which were re- 
 ceived and read by the ignorant generally with great attention. 
 I found daily many opportunities which I gladly improved 
 for serious conversation with the ignorant and thoughtless on 
 religious subjects." Mr. Doak speaks of a lady of great 
 wealth and extensive information, who in youth had received 
 a religious education, but had for more than thirty years almost 
 
 D 
 
18 
 
 totally neglected religion ; who, after his preaching at a cer- 
 tain pUice, came to him and complained, in the bitterest terms, 
 of the wickedness and hardness of her heart, and expressed 
 fears that there could be no pardon for her so vile a sinne^'. 
 Your missionary after pointing to the Lamb of God that tak- 
 eth away the sin of the world, with great reluctance left her 
 bathed in tears and sobbing with anguish. 
 
 The Rev. Colin M'Iver was appointed a missionary, for 
 three months, in the neighbourhood of Fayetteville, North Ca- 
 rolina, among the Scottish Highlanders settled in that district. 
 As the account which Mr. M'lver gives of his labours is com- 
 prized in a short compass, the Board beg permission to read it. 
 
 THE LETTER FROM THE Rl V. COLIN M^VER. 
 
 „ J J TA c- Fayetieville,(N.C.) April ZZyl^lJ, 
 
 Reverend and Dear Sir, -* ^ '^ 
 
 A multitude of pressing engagements which have, of late, imperiously 
 demanded my attention, have prevented me fiom sending you, at an earlier pe- 
 riod, an account of the Mission which 1 undertook, under the direction 
 of the Committee over wliich you preside. I cummenced the said mission 
 on the 1st December last ; and, my labours being interrupted about the 
 middle of that month, by an unexpected call of duty, which required me 
 to take an excursiorl into the state of Georgia, from which 1 was not 
 able to return until the middle of January, I was, of coui'se, prevented from 
 completing my mission, until the last of Mcirch. In endeavouring to discharge 
 the duty assigned me by the Committee, I confined myself to a small circuit. 
 With Very little variation, I occupied the same ground I did last year, visiting 
 nearly the same places, at periodical times ; with this difference, that I have, 
 during the last two months of this mission, preached more within the town of 
 Fayetteville, than I had done last year. This I did in compliance with the 
 solicitations of several persons, who wished to meet for the pusposcs of worship, 
 occasionally, on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, in private families. In the 
 course of my mission, I have preached 70 sermons; baptized 2 infants; orga- 
 nized a congregations ; and administered the Lord's Supper twice. On each 
 occasion on which ( administered the Lord's Supper, there were some new com- 
 municants received, whose account of their previous exercises afforded comforta- 
 ble hopes of a work of grace on their hearts. On ordinary occasions of public 
 Worship, there was much solemnity ; and the attention paid to the preaching of 
 the word was to me truly encouraging. For the same reason which I assigned 
 last year, i forbore to solicit from the people any money for missionary purposes; 
 yet some of them came voluntarily forward, and contributed their free-will offer- 
 ings, ill small sums, amounting, in all, to seven dollars and fifty cents. 
 
 On the whole, the appearances which exhibited themselves during this 
 mission, v/ere such as encouraged me to hope, that my labour was not in vain, 
 in the L<>rd ; and that, in some few instances at least, God has been pleased to 
 follow my feeble cffor's to declare his word, with a blessing to the souls of some 
 of those to whom I spake in his name. To him alone be all the glory ascribed ; 
 and may the time speedily arrive, when *' all shall knoiv him, Jrom the least, even 
 unt' the greatest." Thaf God may ever continue to smile on every effort made 
 to promote his filory, is the fervent prayer of. Reverend and Dear Sir, 
 
 Your affectionate Brother in the Lord, COLIN M'lVER; 
 
19 
 
 The Rev. Doct. James Hall performed missionary la- 
 hour, three months, in the western counties of North Caro- 
 lina. Your aged missionary travelled 718 miles, delivered 51 
 discourses, administered the communion of the Lord's sup- 
 per five time3,'baptized 4 adults and 46 children, and receiv- 
 ed 5 individuals into the communion of the church. In this 
 mission, Doctor Hall associated with himself Mr. Fairchild, 
 who had been placed under his direction. The two mission- 
 aries generally met on the Sabbath for the purpose of holding 
 the communion, and separated early in the week. Of Mr. 
 Fairchild, a pupil of the Theological Seminary, Doctor Hall 
 speaks in very favourable terms, and says he had the pleasure 
 to find that his young colleague was " well received by all 
 classes and denominations, particularly on account of his 
 plainness of speech and evangelical doctrines." 
 
 The Assembly will indulge the Board while they read a 
 part of the journal of Dr. Hall. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF THE REV. JAS. HALL, D.D. 
 
 On the Tuesday next following, we crossed the main mountain which di- 
 vides the waters of the Mississippi from those of the Atlantic. On the N W. 
 side are only three societies of our people, of any considerable number. They 
 had been, during three years, destitute of the gospel and its ordinances, except 
 some sermons from transient preachers This was occasioned by the removal 
 ©f the Rev. G. Newton, who had for several years supplied those congregations. 
 
 Communions had been appointed at all those places, and the people ap- 
 peared to be hungering and thirsting for the Bread and Water of life. The first 
 communion was holden in an Academy near Asheville, the seat of the Court in 
 Buncombe County. Appearances were truly promisir;g. The attention was 
 solemn and the assembly large on bo'h days; and tea'-s flowed copiously during 
 the communion from both old and young. About 35 cummuned, among whom 
 was one young person, the first time- a memlier of the Associate Church. 
 
 The next Sabbath's appoittment was at Rim's Creek, in a mere cove of the 
 mountains, where I experted only a small communion, but to my pleasing aston- 
 ishment, 76 communed. Of those, five new aj>plicants were admitted, among 
 whom was a man about 60 years old, who had several children married. 1 he 
 scene was indeed interestingly solemn. Many tears were shed, both under the 
 sermon on Sabbath, and during the sacramental exercises. All were solemnly 
 silent except the preacher', although loud ourcries had been common at that 
 place during the late revival, which had been very influential in those parts. 
 
 Permit me to recite a I'ttle anecdote, which will help to give some idea of 
 the solemnity of the day. On Sabbath night I lod^rcd with a magistrate of the 
 county who was an elder of the congregation. I had taken an opportunity to 
 converse with a young person, resident in the family, who had not been at the 
 Lord's table. The landlord was conversing with two pious old ladies who 
 lodged with us, on the business of the day. He broke out into a rapturous ex- 
 ercise of praise, thanked Go(i for what he had seen and felt on the preceding 
 day, and declared it was one of the happiest days he had ever enjoyed. 
 
 On the evening of the Weiine>day immediately preceding, a solemn and 
 pleasing icenc was exhibited in Asheville, I had there the pleasure of baptizing 
 
20 
 
 3 mother and eight of her children. They were the wife and children of* 
 wealthy and respectable citizen of that village. The audience was numerous 
 and the scene solemn, and highly gratifying to the vicinity. 
 
 Leaving Swannanoa, we rccrossed the mountain, and proceeded to Ijittle 
 Britain, where was our next Sabbath's appointment, but not a drop of wine could 
 be procured. Large assemblies attended both on Saturday and Sabbath. Two 
 small quantities were heard of at some distance both of which were given upon 
 application, which enabled us to administer on the next Sabbath — the congrega- 
 tion also where we were to have been on that day gave up our services in favour 
 of Little Britain, being a much more numerous and ancient society. We had 
 there a promising season. The number of communicants was about 50, indudr 
 ing four new members On Sabbath evening we had one of the most numerous, 
 solemn and interesting Societies I have seen during many years- 
 Here let it be observed, that I continue to prosecute my method in evening 
 Societies, mentioned in my missionary report of last year — separating the males 
 and the females, and giving each sex a separate address, after the usual parrs of so- 
 cial worship are ended ; and still find encouragement to posevere. Take the fol- 
 lowing example as a specimen of the whole. On the preceding day I had the plea- 
 sure of admitting to the I^ord's table two young persons, both of one family, who 
 had received their first religious impressions from one of those private addresses, on 
 that very night twelve months (counting by the day of the week) I having held 
 a communion at the same place on the day before: nor am I without hope, but, 
 if I shall ever be favoured with the pleasure of seeing my dear children there 
 again, that I will see fruit from seed sown that night, where not less than ao 
 
 > were around me, and I believe every face bathed with tears; yet not a cry nor a 
 
 .groan but only suppressed sobbing to be heard. 
 
 My dear brother, it is hoped you will bear with the talkativeness of an old 
 man, now filling up his 75d year. I have yet more to say; for thinking over 
 the pleasure I have enjoyed m such scenes, my heart so swells, like Elihu ; I can- 
 not refrain. I know that of myself, I am no more than " a sounding brass or a 
 tinkling cymbal;" and when I have done all, am an unprofitable servant, hav- 
 ing only done my duty. But I have reason to bless God, in that he ever opened 
 my way to the ministry, had I never delivered a discourse from the pulpit. 
 
 For more than ^s yearf, when opportunity offered, and prudence dictated, I 
 have made pointed addresses to the consciences of young people : and had 1 kept 
 a memorandum of those cases which have come to my knowledge, who have 
 been brought to a sense of religion under my instructions, I could quote 20 aris- 
 ing from my private addresses ; especially to individuals, for one from the pulpit: 
 yea, T have known a few minutes spent in that way have a more powerful and 
 permanent effect than 100 sermons, [f this be glorying, I hope it is glorying 
 in the Lord ; for I am sensible that I can as soon create a world as convince a 
 sinner of the two-fold evil of sin without aid from above. 
 
 Mr. Ashbel G. Fairchild has pei-formed his mission of 
 6 months, within the bounds of the Presbytery of Concord, 
 under the direction of Dr. Hall. A part of his time he spent 
 in company with Dr. Hall, as was mentioned by the Board in 
 their review of the journal of that aged missionary. He 
 speaks in pleasing terms of the good apparently done by Dr. 
 Hall. While labouring alone, Mr. Fairchild itinerated in the 
 counties of Mecklenburg, Lincoln, Rjtnerford, and Buike. 
 He travelled 1871 miles, and delivered 103 discourses. 
 
21 
 
 Mr. E. W. Gilbert* was appointed by the Board to per- 
 form a mission of four months in the Western part of Vir- 
 ginia, and in the Illinois Territory ; and hkewise to perform a 
 mission of two months in East Tennessee. Mr. Gilbert has 
 forwarded his journal which contains a fulfilment of his mis- 
 sion in company with Mr. Wilbur. I'he country he visit- 
 ed in West Virginia between the rivers Kenhawas he repre- 
 sents as very, destitute. "This people, he observes, in one 
 place, had not seen a minister of any denomination for more 
 than a year ;" and in another, " One woman was here 4 years 
 before she heard a sermon, and another young man was 17 
 years of age before he ever saw a preacher of any kind." 
 
 The spiritual wants of the people in that part of the Illinois 
 ■which lies between the mouth of the Wabash and Kaskaskias, 
 are equally great, and claim the attention of our church. "The 
 territory which was the scene of the latter part of my mission, 
 says Mr. Gilbert, presents a wide field for Presbyterian la- 
 bours. There is not a Preacher of any order settled in the 
 Territory, and but few missionaries have visited it. Presby- 
 terian Churches might be organized with very little trouble in 
 various parts of the Territory," 
 
 In this mission, Mr. Gilbert spent four months, travelled 
 1900 miles and preached 56 times. The Assembly will allow 
 the Board to read a few parts of his journal. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OT MR. E. W. GILBERT. 
 
 Sabbath, October fj — Preached twice fo a large and solemn congregation ; 
 and though I never spoke with less satisfaction to myself, the audience were as 
 attentive as any to whom I ever spoke. Many were affected ; one I saw weep- 
 ing, and I thought 1 heard others sobbing. From what I heard afterwards, I 
 hope good was done. 
 
 Tuesday, November 19. — Crossed the river, and preached to a small concrcga- 
 tion at Mr. Leonard Morris's. This is a very wicked place. In fact, through the 
 whole extent of '' the Licks," vice, in every shape, is common, and from what 
 lean learn, popular. The workmen at the furnaces frequently put off their 
 quarrels till the Sabbath, when they assemble at a tipllng house and have a 
 general settlement. 
 
 Wednesday, November 27. — Preached 9 miles ahead at Mr. John Morris's, 
 a Baptist preacher. My audience was crowded, gave the most undivided atten- 
 tion, and was very solemn. Many wept, and continued to weep violently, long 
 after the exercises were conclutled. The audience were principally Baptists, and 
 professors of religion. The inhabitants throughout this valley are chiefly Bap- 
 tists, and m.my families destitute of the Bible. Mr. Morris said 200 families 
 wanted the Bible in Kenhawa county alone. 
 
 Sabbath, December 29. — Preached in Shawanee town myself in the morning, 
 and brother W in the afternoon, to a small but attentive audience. Thi^? 
 
 • Lately a Student in the General Assembly's Theological Seminary. 
 
22 
 
 i«wn is about as large as Kasfeaskia, but has many more English people, and is m 
 IS destitute a condition as any place I ever visited. They seem to care nothing 
 about the Sabbath, nor morahty in anv shape. There is not a profe«sor of re- 
 ligion in the place. They have no schools, will not come out to preaching, and 
 are the most profane people I ever met with. After service we went home with 
 Mr. Srrcet, a son in-law of George Posey, of Indiana, Secretary of the Bible 
 Society here, and an excellent man, though not a professor of religion. 
 
 Ed-wardsvillt. — This is a thickly settled part of the country ; the people irj 
 general moral, and many of them professors of religion. Though the greater 
 part are Methodists, there are many Presbyterians, who were rejoiced to see 
 me. Some had not heard a Presbyterian preacher for 12 or 14 years, and some 
 >who were born in the country had never heard one in their lives. 
 
 Kaiiaskii, Subiath, Feb. 9. — This day being the hst which we intended to 
 spend in this place, we had a crowded hous-e. I preached in the morning, and 
 
 brother W in the afternoon. When we bade them farewell, the people 
 
 .Were much affected, and seemed to view our departure with sincere regret. 
 From our first arrival, they had made use of every means of detaining at least 
 one of us in the Territory. The people (Americans) are few in number, but 
 offered to contribute liberally to our support. Though but a small number 
 came out at first, the congregation gradually increased, the last assembly being 
 Mniformly the largest. And if we could have continued among them, I have 
 little doubt much good would have been done ; perhaps some to the Catholics. 
 If none were converted, many were made to respect religion, who had been 
 open despisers ; others were rendered thoughtful and anxious, and persuaded to 
 diligence in the use of means. They were so anxious for our return, and we so 
 much encouraged, that we half promised^ if Providence permitted, to return. 
 The Governor attended every sermon, rffered to board us at his own table, and 
 give 50 dollars a year beside, if either of us would remain. 
 
 Mr. Backus Wilbur * has reported the fulfilment of his 
 mission in the same region through which Mr. Gilbert itiner- 
 ated. He concurs in the representation given by his associ- 
 ate of the state of the country and its great wants. 
 
 The Rev. William Wylie, who was directed to spend 
 three months as a missionary in the Missouri Territory, and 
 one month on missionary ground on his way through Ohio, 
 Indiana and Illinois, expresses his regret that the sickness of 
 his wife prevented his spending more than six weeks on his 
 mission. His preaching of course could not be extended as 
 far as was contemplated in his appointment. " I employed, 
 he states, 42 days, rode about 732 miles, preached 37 ser- 
 mons, assisted on two occasions at the administration of the 
 Lord's Supper, and attended one meeting of a praying Society." 
 He adds in another part of his journal, " In general it may 
 be observed that the destitute settlements in the State of 
 Ohio, present a people anxious for the ministrations of the 
 
 • Lately a Student in the General Assembly's Theological Seminary. 
 
23 
 
 ^(^spel, who not only merit our attention, sympathy and 
 prayers, but earnestly intreat them ; and that God has gra- 
 ciously made the prevalence of damnable heresy in the South 
 Western Section of that State an occasion of fixing the atten- 
 tion and hearts of Christians upon the precious and funda- 
 mental truths of the Gospel. The doctrines of the Trinity, 
 of the Divinity of our Saviour, of redemption through his 
 blood, &c. are the subjects upon which our brethren in the 
 ministry there preach principally, and preach with much plain- 
 ness, warmth and energy, and those which peculiarly engage 
 the private Christian." 
 
 The Rev. Daniel Smith, who had been appointed by the 
 Committe of Missions to labour as a missionary three months 
 in Natchez in the year 1815, presented his report after the 
 rising of the last General Assembly. The Board are happy 
 to inform the Assembly, that the result of his labours in that 
 town has been his settlement there as a stated pastor. Mr. 
 Smith appears to have conducted his mission with prudence 
 and judgment ; a flattering prospect of usefulness is opened to 
 him among a people hitherto in a very destitute condition in 
 regard to the means of grace, while they had ample resources 
 for supporting the gospel ministry. As it is peculiarly desir- 
 able to promote the cause of morality and religion in the re- 
 mote parts of the southern section of our country, the infor- 
 mation just given of the permanent settlement of a minister of 
 Christ in so important and growing a place as Natchez, will 
 no doubt be highly gratifying to the Assembly ; and the 
 Board, knowing the interest which is felt in the spread of 
 divine truth in that destitute region, trust they will not be con- 
 sidered as trespassing on the Assembly's patience, if they 
 read the interesting report of Mr. Smith. 
 
 THE LETTER OF THE REV. DANIEL SMITH. 
 Dear Sir, 
 
 On my arrival at Natchez, on the i8th of January last, 1 received the 
 commission and instructions of your Committee, and immediately commenced 
 my libours, in the service of the General Assembly. The city of Natchez, 
 previously to that time, had been deplorably destitute of the stated means of 
 grace. It had been occasionally visited by clergymen of different denominations; 
 but never before, I believe, had ic regularly enjoyed the morning and evening 
 tcrvices cf the sanctuary. And it was a remarkable circumstance, that a people 
 «o much neglected should have exerted themsclvce 60 laudably in the erection 
 
24 
 
 of a convenient hou^e for public worship, and in endeavouring to procure a 
 preacher of the gospel. They had built and finished, in a very handsome style, 
 a brick charch sufficiently large for every present purpose. It was opened more 
 than a year since, while I was in Natchez. At the request of the trustees, I then 
 preached the dedication sermon. Still the habit of attending public worship 
 was wanting ; and it was apprehended that most of the seats would for a long 
 time remain unoccupied. It was not, therefore, thought best to appoint public 
 meetings, except on the Sabbath. 
 
 The weather, for some weeks after my arrival, was unusually wet and un- 
 comfortable. Our congregations were consequently small. Still there was a 
 regular and constant increase of numbers; — and after the weather became plea- 
 sant in March, the house was generally well filled. It soon became fashionable 
 to' go to church. Families that had rarely attended, since their residence in 
 that country, for many years, were drawn out, and became constant at the house 
 of God. These were, in many instances, the wealthiest and most respectable 
 inhabitants of the place. Besides the public services of the sanctuary, I had oc- 
 casional calls to preach funeral sermons in the country adjacent to the town. 
 The town itself was so healthy, that for the four months I was there, I was 
 called to attend but two funerals in it — one of an infant, and one of a young man 
 who ruined his constitution in the defence of New Orleans. 
 
 Soon after my arrival, the monthly concert for prayer was established, and 
 was connected with a weekly prayer meeting. These meetings commenced with 
 only a little handful of devout persons; but our numbers increased until (hey 
 filled a large room. Most of those that attended were young people. And I 
 had the satisfaction to know, from private conversations with them, that they 
 made a serious business of it. A number of them were quite solemn, and some 
 under deep convictions. This rendered these little seasons of devotion extreme- 
 ly interesting. It was even more than I had hoped. My heart was greatly 
 encouraged. 
 
 Another class of exertions were family visits, and private conversations on 
 religious subjects. This was matter that required much prudence. The habits 
 of the people were all averse to any thing like personal religion. In general, 
 I did not think it best to address any one respecting the state of his own soul, 
 until I had become acquainted with his temper and character ; and then in every 
 instance my conversation was well received, and often seemed to make a deep, 
 and, I hope, an abiding impression. My more usual method was to endeavour 
 to introduce in family visits a general conversation on religious subjects, and then 
 to recommend books of a more pointed and practical kind. This prepared the 
 way for a natural and advantageous introduction of personal conversation afters- 
 wards. The result of these exertions, when I left Natchez, was not as decided 
 £s I could have wished. It was not my policy to press matters to an immediate 
 iissue. Yet I do hope that something was done, and I bless the Lord for it. A 
 favourable impression, I believe, was made on the public mind, in favour of 
 evangelical religion. I judge from the singular unanimity with which the people 
 afterwards joined, in requesting me to return and establish myself among them. 
 This was in no measure owing to the people's not understanding my sentiments. 
 Never did I preach so plainly and pointedly before, on those doctrines of the 
 Gospel that are usually offensive to the unrenewed heart. In some whole 
 families, that before had been totally regardless of religion, a very considerable 
 degree of seriousness was evidently prevailing. Religious books were almost 
 exclusively read, and religious conversation was frequently introduced. These 
 families became constant attendants at the sanctuary, and were often at our little 
 meetings for prayer. A number of individuals seemed to be seriously en- 
 gaged in seeking the salvation of their souls. They conversed on the subject 
 with the deepest interest; they read the Scriptures, and commenced a course of 
 secret devotion. At least two instances came to my knowledge of hopeful 
 conversion by divine grace. One was the daughter of a poor widow, whom I 
 was called to visit on her death bed. She was deranged through the violence 
 of her disease ; but from her mother's account of her, I had the fullest reason 
 
25 
 
 to believe that she had embraced the truth in the love of It. The last time she 
 attended in the house of God, she said, as she went away, " Long as I live 1 will 
 couciiue to go to that lovely place." The other hopeful subject of divine grace, 
 was a young lady of unusually correct deportment and amiable character ; but, 
 brought by the enlightening influences of the divine Spirit, under a deep sense 
 of her ingratitude to God, to see the vileness, and feel the hardness of her heart; 
 and ultimately to trust only in renewing and pardoning mercy That mercy, 
 1 hope, was extended to her. She was literally led, by an invisible hand, in 
 a way that she knew not ; through a course of exercises and feelings, of the 
 nature and necessity of which, she was before totally ignorant. 
 
 In the city of Natchez there never has been an organized protestant church 
 of any denomination. There are a few pious Methodists, Baptists, and Presby- 
 terians; but heretofore there never were a sufficient number of either, to vvar- 
 rant the formation of a church. Should I return to Natchez in the fall, I shall 
 have strong hopes of succeeding in the establishment of a Presbyterian chUrcbj 
 of fifteen or twenty members. 
 
 Hitherto there has been among the inhabitants of Natchez, very little religious 
 charitable exertion. To excite a spirit of charity, therefore, would be an essen- 
 tial benefit, as well to those who should exercise it, as to those that might be the 
 objects of it. With this view, I recommended, to a few ladies, the formation of 
 a Society, whose object it should be to educate and support, if necessary, poor 
 children in Natchez and the vicinity. It was strenuously objected to at first, 
 that there was no necessity for such an institution ; but, after a little inquiry into 
 the state of the poor, the objection ceased ; a subscription was circulated ; about 
 a thousand dollars were subscribed by the ladies ; a Society was organized ; a 
 poor widow and a number of children were taken under its patronage ; a num- 
 ber of other children were sent to school ; and measures were taken for the per- 
 manent establishment of a charity school. 
 
 On my arrival at Natchez, I found the trustees of the church embarrassed 
 with a debt incurred in erecting it, of aboat four thousand dollars. Repeated 
 applications had been made to the citizens, and to the public at large, for assis- 
 tance, but without success. When public worship came to be regularly attended 
 in the house, another effort was made. A subscription was circulated, and, in a 
 few days, about three thousand dollars were obtained ; so that the trustees have 
 now a fair prospect, in the coarse of a year, of being freed from that embarrass- 
 ment entirely. 
 
 After I had been in the place a few weeks, a number of gentlemen began 
 to converse with me on the subject of permanently establishing myself in the 
 ministry among them. A subscription was circulated for my support, and an 
 adequate sum obtained. It occasioned much regret that I was obliged to leave 
 them destitute of preaching this summer. But as I could not dispense with 
 visiting the Northern States during this year, they agreed with me in opinion, 
 that I had best come away immediately; and thus avoid the warm season, and 
 be ready to return early in the fall This arrangement was mutually agreed on; 
 and, I believe, gave general natisfaction. 
 
 In reviewing the whole, I have the most abundant reason to bless the Lord 
 for his goodness. He has preserved nie from the dangers of the deep ; has 
 given me success beyond my expectations, in performing the other duties of my 
 mission, such as distributing the lage assortment of Bibles, religious books, Tracts 
 and pamphlets, with which I was entrusted, and baa, as I must be permitted to 
 hope, given me some degree of usefulness among the people to whom I was sent. 
 I am, dear Sir, most respectfully 
 P!Aladelpbla,June<j, lUe. Your'e, DANIEL SMITH. 
 
 The Rev. James Hughs, who was appointed a missionary, 
 lour months, in \.\\t vicinity of Urbanna and to the Indians ia 
 
26 
 
 and about Lewistown, has sent the following letter, a part of 
 which will be read, 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THE REV. JAMES HUGHS. 
 
 Since I wrote you in May last, I have regularly attended to the ser- 
 vice of the mission one third part of my time, and in this time have preached 
 fifty-three sermons. I cannot say that any very special effects have appeared^ 
 except an increased attention to the means, and a desire to enjoy the gospel and its 
 ordinances. In August last, I administered the Lord's supper at Piqua ; a 
 great number attended, and it was a very solemn season ; a number were affect-' 
 ed, and a few were added to the church on that occasion. My missionary ser- 
 vices have been given chiefly to seven places, which are now formed into congre* 
 jjations. At the last meeting of our Presbytery, one of them, the town of Spring- 
 field, obtained a part of Mr. Steel's time for one year as a stated supply ; the 
 others are taking up subscriptions, and the next year will be prepared to dis- 
 charge a considerable part of the missionary service they may receive. From 
 two of them, Piqua and Concord, 1 have received gij for past time. 
 
 I have had but little opportunity with the Indians ; last summer they had a 
 large meeting, the principal part of the Wyandot, Shawanese, Mingo, and Dela- 
 ware nations attended. I met with them and preached to them, they all gave 
 good attention. I proposed to visit them at their respective towns, if they de- 
 sired it, and preach to them ; they said they would consider on it and send me an 
 answer ; but they have not as yet, except the Wyandots ; their chiefs have sent a 
 request that I would go and preach to them. Their nation are now generally 
 very desirous to become civilized and live as white people do ; but very few of 
 them have any desire to be evangelized; they allege that God is better pleased 
 with them in their old way of heathen worship. It is hoped that if they get 
 into a more civilized way of living, which they now see is necessary, that then 
 it will be more easy to bring them to attend to religion. 
 
 The Shawanese at Lewistown have become very much discouraged about the 
 school we proposed to institute for their children, and I believe are rather offend- 
 ed, if not with us, with our government, At every opportunity they have en- 
 quired of us, whether their petition was granted for the land ; at length Capt. 
 Lewis sent for the children I had with me to go home a while, and he would 
 send them back again ; but they have not come. I saw him once since, and 
 enquired the reason they had not come : he then told me the reason was, be- 
 cause as government did not make any grant to help me, he thought it was too 
 much for me to keep them myself. I told him not to keep them away on that 
 account, as the Missionary Society and goed people would help me, and I wish- 
 ed to give the children an education. He then promised he would send them; 
 but they are not yet come, except the two least boys who came first. 
 
 If the Board of Missions see proper to appoint me the ensuing season, I wish 
 to be particularly instructed respecting the Indians, and a school for their 
 children. I have not yet had any information respecting the fate of the petition 
 to Congress ; some of the Indians are yet very anxious to have a school, and 
 have said, that if Congress do not grant their petition, that they will give land 
 on their own side of the boundary line, if I would have a school there; this I 
 think would not answer so well for different reasons. — It would be difficult to 
 get a suitable teacher to go there, and it would be more difficult to keep the 
 children at school when near home ; k would also be more expensive, I think it 
 would be better, and not more expensive, to purchase a half or quarter section of 
 land in a good settlement of white people, whose children would go to school with 
 the Indians, and in part support the teacher ; and the Indians would learn sooner 
 to read and speak English. I submit this to the Board and hope you will instruct 
 me particulary in the case. I have still one third part of oi/ titnc unengaged. 
 
27 
 
 The Synod of Virginia has sent the following report. 
 
 Report of the Synod of Virginia on the conduct of Mis- 
 sions during the year fiast. 
 
 The Synod employed (by their Committees of Missions,) seven 
 Missionaries, for various and mostly short periods ; amounting in 
 all to about 17 months labours. These Missionaries appear to have 
 discharged their duty with diligence and fidelity ; and though noth- 
 ing very remarkable occurred, there is reason to believe they have not 
 laboured without success. The call for Missionaries continues to be 
 ioud ; and far beyond our means of supplying. We are exerting 
 our efforts to increase the number of our preachers ; and hope for 
 the blessing of God in this all-important concern. 
 
 Conrad Speece, jr. Stated Clerk of Synod. 
 
 The Board of the Western Missionary Society has made 
 the following report. 
 
 The Board of the Western Missionary Society Report, 
 io the Board of Missions of the General Assembly; — that 
 during the last year they have employed in their service, nine Mis- 
 sionaries ; eight of these, for one month each, and one for two 
 months. The fields of labour have been the settlements on the 
 head vvaters of the Monongohala, Cheat, and Wheelen ; the coun- 
 ties of Green and Monongohala generally ; the settlements cast of 
 the Tuskarawas and the waters of Sandy ; the settlements on the 
 Alleghany from Franklin to the N. York line, including those on 
 Cherry-tree creek, Oil creek, Big and Little Broken Straw, Cona- 
 wongo, Beach-woods, Chataughque Lake, and part of Lake Erie— 
 The counties of Armstrong and Indiana on the vvaters of the 
 Keskemanetas, Crooked Creek, and Blacklick. 
 
 From the journals of our Missionaries, we learn that there is a 
 growing attention to the ordinances of religion, and a general anxiety 
 for the preaching of the gospel ; and that in almost every place the 
 labours of our Missionaries have been blessed ; the hearts of the 
 pious comforted, and not. a few awakened to' a serious concern for 
 their immortal interest. It may be truly said, that the fields arc 
 whitening unto tlie harvest. 
 
 Applications for Missionary labours have greatly increased within 
 the last year ; but your Committee have to mention, with regret, 
 that from our limited mei'ns, and the gi'eat scarcity of labourers, 
 we are not able to meet the numerous and pressing calls, which are 
 made by those who are perishing through lack of vision. 
 
 Our expenditures during the past year, have been about one 
 thousand dollars. Our permanent fund amounts to between eleven 
 and twelve hundred dollars ; and our contingent fund to little more 
 than two hundred. To meet the demands of the current year we 
 must trust in God, who has the hearts of all in his bands, that while 
 he encourages the cry of those that are ready to perish, he will pro- 
 vide for them the bread of life. 
 
The «chooi established at Cornplanter's is stili continued; but 
 owing to the delay and disappointment which usually attend the 
 establishment of new institutions, and more especially when they 
 are at a distance from civilized society, the scholars now at school 
 have not been more than eighteen months under tuition. The pro- 
 gress of these have exceeded bur most sanguine expectations. — A 
 specimen of their writing will accompany this report. The number 
 that attended the school regularly is eleven : they consist of boys 
 from twelve to eighteen years of age. If their education can be 
 effected, an important object will be accomplished ; the advantages 
 resulting from it, through the divine blessing will descend to genera' 
 tions ijet unborn. 
 
 The Board were making arrangements to establish a second 
 school at Coldspring ; but the Society of Friends recommenced 
 their former school last fall, and we hope the object will be accom- 
 plished by them. The patronage that Cornplanter has given to the 
 school and his persevering zeal for the education of his youth, give 
 ground to hope for eventual success. The teacher has obtained the 
 confidence of all the Indians, and his example has had a happy in- 
 fly ance on their habits, especially in the observance of the Sabbath. 
 The Indians all attend the ordinances of religion when dispensed 
 among them, and manifest considerable seriousness. Our Mis- 
 sionaries have frequently visited the school, and preached to them. 
 When there is no Missionary there, the Indians with some white 
 people in the neighbourhood, meet, for social worship on the Sab- 
 bath, in which the school-master presides. He opens and closes the 
 meeting with prayer, and reads the Scriptures with Dr. Scott's Com* 
 ment, and other approved authors. 
 
 To conclude, we believe the Lord is calling to persevering exertions 
 to hope and pray for the blessing which will make the wilderness 
 like a fruitful field. Elisha Macurdy. 
 
 Thomas Hunt. 
 John M. Snowdex. 
 
 The Presbytery of New Brunswick has established a Mis- 
 sionary Society auxiliary to this Board, on a plan similar to 
 that proposed in their late publication. 
 
 The Presbytery of Geneva has resolved to form a Mission- 
 ary Society, auxiliary to this Board. 
 
 Information has been received that the Presbytery of Albany 
 have formed an auxiliary Missionary Society agreeably to the 
 recommendation of this Board ; that they have raised some 
 money which they intend to forward to the Treasurer of the 
 General Assembly ; that they wish to be considered as entirely 
 auxiliary ; and that the Society was formed by the cordial and 
 unanimous vote of Presbytery. 
 
29 
 
 MISSIONARY APPOINTMENTS. 
 
 The following missionary appointments have been made 
 by the Board for the current year. 
 
 1. The Rev. James Johnson, four months ; 
 
 2. The Rev. Ashbel Parmelee, one month ; 
 
 3. The Rev. Thomas Kennan, one month : 
 
 These Missionaries are to itinerate within the bounds of 
 the Presbytery of Champlain, and to receive directions in re- 
 gard to their routes, from that Presbytery. 
 
 4. The Presbytery of Columbia, to employ a Missionarv, 
 three months, in their northern region. 
 
 5. The Rev. John Younglove, two months, in the county 
 of Rensselear. 
 
 6. The Presbyteryof Geneva, to employ a Missionary, 
 three months. 
 
 7. The Rev. Andrew Rawson, two months, in the Hol- 
 land purchase. 
 
 8. The Rev. John Davenport, two months. His route, 
 to be prescribed by the Presbytery of Onondaga. 
 
 9. Mr. Phinehas Camp, three months, in the destitute places 
 in the region near Detroit. 
 
 10. The Presbytery of Hudson to direct a mission of three 
 months, on missionary ground, within their limits ; and lo 
 divide the time among the Missionaries, as they may judge 
 most conducive to the interest of the mission. 
 
 11. The Standing Committee of the Western INIissionary 
 Society of New Jersey, to employ a Missionary, three months, 
 in the western part of the state of New Jersey. 
 
 12. The Rev, John Gloucester, three months, to the Blacks 
 in Philadelphia, and one month to the same people elsewhere. 
 
 13. Mr. Wells Andrews, three months, in Bedford, Hunt- 
 ingdon, and Cambria counties, Pennsylvania ; and, in the 
 course of this mission, he is to visit the town of Bedford, 
 where it is expected he will receive compensation for any 
 time he may labour there. 
 
 14. Mr. William B. Montgomery, three months ; begin- 
 ning his mission from the forks of the Susquehanna, he is to 
 pursue his course up the east branch, to the line which di- 
 vides Pennsylvania from New York. 
 
 15. Rev, Thomas Hoge, one month, in those regions of 
 country, between Stubenville, Tuskarawa, and Canton. 
 
 16. Mr. David Montfort, six months. His route to be 
 prescribed by the Committee of the Board of Trust of the 
 Synod of Ohio ; and his seivices to be remunerated out of 
 the funds of that Board. 
 
 17* Rev. Daniel C. Hopkins, three months, in the state of 
 
30 
 
 Ohio ; and in going to that State he is to pass through the 
 western part of Pennsylvania, on missionary ground ; and 
 when arrived in Ohio, he is to be directed by the Committee 
 of the Board of Trust of the Synod of Ohio. 
 
 18. Rev. Joseph Stephenson, two months, on the heads of 
 the Muskingum, Sandusky, and Shad rivers. 
 
 19. Mr. Phinehas Camp, three months, in the state of Ohio. 
 His route to be prescribed by the Committee of the Board of 
 Trust of the Synod of Ohio. 
 
 20. The Rev. Robert Semple, one month, on the head 
 waters of Muskingum, in the state of Ohio. 
 
 21. Rev. James Hughs, four months, in the vicinity of 
 Urbanna,and to the Indians in and about Lewistown. 
 
 22. Mr. Alvin Coe, three months, in the counties of Rich- 
 land and Huron, state of Ohio. 
 
 23. Rev. James M'Gready, three months, in the state of 
 Indiana, in the counties of Clark, Harrison, Gibson, and 
 Knox 
 
 24. Rev. William Dickey, three months, in the state of In- 
 diana, at discretion. 
 
 25. Mr. John F. Crow, three months, in the Illinois Ter- 
 ritory. 
 
 26. Rev. Thomas Cleland, one month, on missionary 
 ground, at discretion. 
 
 27. Rev. William Hodge, two months, in the counties of 
 Logan, Warren, and Allen, Kentucky. 
 
 28. Rev. Samuel Hodge, two months, in the counties of 
 Smith, Jackson, and White, Kentucky. 
 
 29. The Board of Missions to send a Missionary, two 
 months, in compliance with the request of the Missionary 
 Society of East Tennessee. 
 
 30. Mr. John Newion Blackburn, three months, and 
 
 31. Mr. John T. HambletOn, three months ; their routes 
 to be prescribed by the Rev. Gideon Blackburn. 
 
 32. Presbytery of Abingdon, to employ a missionary, three 
 months. 
 
 33. Rev. Colin M'lver, three months, in the neighbour- 
 hood of Fayetteville, North Carolina, among the Scottish 
 Highlanders settled in that district. 
 
 34. Rev. John Witherspoon, three months, in the Eastern 
 part of North Carolina. 
 
 35. The Board of Missions to send a missionary, six 
 months, in the eastern part of North Carolina. 
 
 36. Rev. Doctor James Hall, six months, in the western 
 part of North Carolina, and in South Carolina, at discretion. 
 
 37. Rev. Joseph D. Kilpatrick, one month, in the western 
 part of North Carolina. 
 
31 
 
 38. Mr. Jeremiah Chamberlain, six months, through the 
 south western counties of Pennsylvania to the Ohio, and 
 down that river to St. Louis ; where he will join Mr. Lamed, 
 and then visit the destitute towns on the Mississippi, between 
 Natchez and New Orleans ; and, if practicable, visit the set- 
 tlements on the Mobile. 
 
 39. Mr. William M*Farlane, six months, through the 
 south western counties of Pennsylvania to the Ohio, and 
 down that river to St. Louis ; to which place Mr. M'Farlane 
 is particularly destined, and where he will spend the remain- 
 ing part of his time, if that town be not supplied ; but if it be 
 supplied, he is to visit the destitute places in the Missouri 
 Territory. 
 
 40. Mr. Eliphalet W. Gilbert, six months, to the towns of 
 Shawanee and Kaskaskias, and adjacent places. 
 
 41. Mr. John Covert, two months, in the western part of 
 the state of South Carolina and Georgia. 
 
 42. Rev. Richard King, six months, in the Mississippi 
 Territory, down the Tombeckbe to Fort Stoddart, thence 
 across to Fort Jackson, and up the waters of the Alabama, 
 and through the lower parts of Tennessee and Kentucky. 
 
 43. Mr. Sylvester Lamed, six months, especially with a 
 view to establish the. ministry of the gospel in the city of 
 New Orleans ; and in travelling to that city he will commence 
 his route from Detroit, pass through Vincennes, Kaskaskias, 
 and St. Louis. 
 
 44. That the Rev. James Hughs be allowed four hundred 
 and fifty dollars, for carrying on his mission to the Indians in 
 and about Lewistown, Ohio ; 
 
 45. That the Board of Trust of the Western Missionary 
 Society be allowed three hundred dollars for the purpose of 
 establishing a second school among the Six Nations. 
 
52 
 
 FORM OF A CONSTlTTJ'TIO^T 
 lOR AN AUXILIARY MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 
 
 Article i. This Society shall be denominated " The Auxiliary Misiionary 
 Society of ." 
 
 Art. II. The object of this Society shall be to supply with the preaching 
 of the gospel the destitute within our own limits, and to aid the funds, and 
 facilitate the operations, of" The Board of Missions acting anier the authori- 
 ty of The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Cuorch in the 
 United States of America. 
 
 Art. III. Any person paying — dollars oft subscribing, and one dollar 
 annually, shall be a member of this Society : and any person paying at one 
 Hvat. twenty dollars, or a sum which added to his formtr payments shall amount 
 to ttvcnty dollars, shall be a member for life, without farther contributions. 
 
 Art. IV. This Society shall meet annually at on the — — day of 
 
 at which the report of its proceedings shall be read, and its officers shal! 
 
 be chosen. The officers shall be a President, Secretary and Treasurer. 
 
 Art. v. a Standing Committee of seven persons shall be chosen at the same 
 time ; any four of whom shall be a quorum to do business. It shall be the duty 
 of this Committee to employ Missionaries, — to prescribe their routes and fix 
 their stations, -to obtain and collect subscriptions and donations to the funds of 
 the Society, — to manage the general business when the Society is not in session, 
 — and to report at every annual meeting of the Society an account of their 
 proceedings. 
 
 Art. VI. The Missionaries emj^loyed shall be either Luentiatci or Ordained 
 Ministers of the Presbyterian Church, in good and regular standing, whom the 
 Standing Committee may deem suitable persons ; or such persons as may be 
 sent by the Board of Missions, on the application of the Standing Committee. 
 
 Art. VII. The Missionaries shall labour within the limits of this Society, and 
 parts adjacent which may be destitute ; they shall receive from the funds of this 
 Society for their services yi/r/jr dollars per month, being the salary allowed by the 
 Board of Missions to their Missionaries ; they shall report, as soon as convenient 
 after finishing their tour, an account of their labours and apparent success, and 
 of all other matters interesting to the missionary cause that may occur to their 
 observation. 
 
 A'rt. VIII. Any surplus funds which may at any time be possessed by the 
 Society, shall be paid over to the Missionary fund of the General Assembly, at 
 the discretion of the Standing Committee. (Should there be no missionary 
 ground within the limits of any Society, it is recommended that all the funds be 
 paid into the Missionary fund of the General Assembly.) 
 
 Art. IX, The formation of Missionary Associations, to aid the funds of this 
 Society, shall be promoted by its members whenever an opportunity offers ; and 
 it shall especially be the duty of Missionaries supported by this Societyi to en- 
 deavour to form such Associations wherever it may be practicable. 
 
 Art. X. Any Association of persons (male or female) who shall contribute to 
 this Society ten dollars^ shall have the privilege of sending one deputy to the 
 
33 
 
 Society who shall enjoy all the privileges of any other member ; and for every 
 additionul ten dollars, they shall have a right to appoint another representative. 
 
 Art. XI. This Constitution may be altered at any annual meeting of the So- 
 ciety, by a vote of a majority of all the members, or of two thirds of the members 
 present. 
 
 As soon as twelve subscribers shall be obtained, the Society shall be considered 
 as formed ; and may immediately proceed to the choice of its Officers and Stand- 
 ing Committee, who shall serve till the day appointed in the Constitution for 
 the annual meeting. 
 
 rORM OF A CONSTITUTION 
 FOR A MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Article i. This Association shall he denominated " The Missionary As- 
 sociation of o ." 
 
 A»T. i^The object of this Association shall be to aid the funds of the Aux- 
 iliary Missionary Society of (Should the local situation of any Asso- 
 ciations render it more convenient to pay their funds immediately into the 
 Missionary fund cf the General Assembly, it is recommended that this article 
 ehould be formed accordingly.) 
 
 Art. III. Any person paying annually at the rate of one cent per week, 
 shall be a member of this Association. 
 
 Art. IV. The subscriptions shall be paid monthly, or quarterly, or half 
 yearly, or annually, as the Association may determine. 
 
 Art. V. The Association shall meet annually at —^— on the — — day of 
 at which time they shall chose a Treasurer, and a Committee consisting of three 
 persons ; and read any Missionary report or journal that may be sent by the 
 Auxiliary Missionary Society, or any piece of Missionary intelligence of an in- 
 teresting nature that may be procured. 
 
 Art. VI. It shall be the duty of all the members, and particularly of the 
 Committee, to procure subscribers and donations. 
 
 Art. VII. 'Ihe Committee shall be charged with the business of collecting the 
 money due from the members, and paying what they collect to the Treasurer. 
 
 Art. Till. As soon as the Treasurer shall have received ten dollars, he or she 
 shall pay it over to the Treasurer of the Auxiliary Missionary Society ; and it 
 shall be the duty of the Treasurer to report to every annually meeting of the 
 Association the amount of all monies received and paid. 
 
 Art. IX- If the Association shall be disposed to exercise their privilege, they 
 ehall, at the annual meeting, appoint their deputy or deputies to attend the next 
 annual meeting of the Auxiliary Missionary Society. 
 
 Art. X. A. ^ soon as ten snbscribtrs shall be obtained, the Association may 
 prorod to choose their Treasurer and Committee, who shall serve till the day 
 appointed in the Constitution for the annual meeting. 
 
I 
 
 E 
 
 
.^\''^^-