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 BRIEF 
 
 JVARMATIVJE 
 
 OP THU 
 
 BAPTIST MISSION 
 
 M 
 
 INDIA. 
 
 y 
 
 
 Printed by J. YV. Morris, Dunstable. 
 
 Sold by Button, 24, and Burditt, GO, Paternoster- Roto, 
 Honfcon : 
 
 AND MAT BE IIAD OF THE BAPTIST MINISTERS IN MOST OT 
 V THE PRINCIPAL TOWNS IN THE KINGDOM. 
 
 ■Price One Shilling. 
 
 1808 . 
 
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^ADVERTISEMENT. 
 
 the history of the Baptist Mission in 
 India is interspersed through the several 
 Numbers of Periodical Accounts , it has 
 been thought desirable that a brief and con- 
 nected Narrative of the leading facts should 
 be drawn up, botli for the convenience of 
 our constant readers, and the information of 
 such persons as may feel an interest in the 
 undertaking, but who are not acquainted 
 with its rise and progress. 
 
Contents. 
 
 » v . 
 
 SECTION I. 
 
 PIG M 
 
 The formation of the Society, and the sending out of its two first mis- 
 sionaries 5 
 
 SECTION II. 
 
 The arrival of the missionaries in India, and their settlement in the 
 
 neighbourhood of Malda 13 
 
 SECTION III. 
 
 Progress of the Mission, from 1795 to 1799 * 17 
 
 . SECTION IV. 
 
 Four other missionaries sent out, and the seat of the mission removed 
 
 to Seratupore 29 
 
 SECTION V. 
 
 Progress of the mission at Serampore, from 1300 to 1807, containing 
 
 the principal events under each year successively 21 
 
 hoi t of persons baptised by the missionaries in Bengal 67 
 
 I 
 
NARRATIVE, 
 
 & c. 
 
 * SECTION I. 
 
 % 
 
 THE FORMATION OF THE SOCIETY, AND THE SENDING 
 OUT OF ITS TWOJ'IRST MISSIONARIES. 
 
 At an association of ministers and churches held at 
 Nottingham in 1784, it was resolved to set apart an hour 
 on the first Monday evening in every month for extraor- 
 dinary prayer for the revival of religion, and for the ex- 
 tending of Christ’s kingdom in the world. This resolu- 
 tion was attended to for about seven years with some de- 
 gree of zeal and importunity. 
 
 In 1787, Mr. Carey was ordained pastor of the church 
 at Moulton, and joined the association. From his first 
 entering on the work of the ministry, if not from an ear- 
 lier period, his mind appears to have been deeply impres- 
 sed with the state of the heathen world. In reference 
 to this object he made himself acquainted with the geo- 
 graphy, population, and, religion of the various nations 
 of the earth; and with the labours of Christians, both of 
 early and later ages, in propagating the gospel. He also 
 acquired some considerable knowledge of various lan- 
 guages, particularly latin, greek and hebrew; and all 
 
 B 
 
G 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 seemed to be directed to the same end. Whenever lie 
 met with his brethren in the ministry, he would seldom 
 omit to converse with them on the importance and prac- 
 i ticability of missions. 
 
 These conversations, together with the monthly prayer 
 meetings, wrought considerably on the minds of the mi- 
 nisters. It seemed scarcely reconcileable with sincerity 
 to pray month after month, and year after year, for the 
 enlargement of Christ’s kingdom, and use no means for 
 enlarging it. 
 
 About 1790, Mr. Carey visited Birmingham, and be- 
 came acquainted with Mr. Pearce, whose kindred soul 
 entered with ardour into all his views. Some of the 
 leading members also of Mr. Pearce’s church were much 
 interested in his proposals, and promised to assist him. 
 
 In the spring of 179C at a ministers’ meeting held at 
 Clipstone, the twosermons that were preached bore much 
 upon this subject. One was delivered by Mr. Sulcliff, 
 from 1 Kings xix. 10. I have been very jealous Jor the 
 Lord God of hosts, fyc. and the other by Mr. Fuller, from 
 Hag. i. 2. Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, This 
 people say the time is not come, the time that the Lord's 
 house should be built. After worship was over, Mr. Ca- 
 rey perceiving the minds of his brethren impressed by 
 What they had been hearing, was very desirous that be- 
 fore the}’ parted they would come to some resolution 
 on the forming of a missionary society. The only re- 
 solution that was formed however at this lime was, that 
 as Mr. Carey was known to have a manuscript by him 
 on the subject, he should be requested to revise and 
 print it for the consideration of the religious public. 
 
 In the spring of 1792, the annual association was held 
 at Nottingham, and Mr. Carey was one of the preach- 
 ers. His sermon was founded on Isai. liv. 2,3. Enlarge 
 the place of thy tent, and let them stretch Jorth the curtains 
 
7 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 of thine habitations : spare not, lengthen tin j cords, and 
 strengthen thij stakes; for thou shalt break forth on the 
 right hand and on the left, ore. Having observed in his 
 introduction that the' church was here addressed as a 
 desolate widow*, dwelling in a little cottage by herself; 
 that the command to enlarge her tent contained an inti- 
 mation that there should be an enlargement in her fami- 
 ly ; and that to account for so unexpected a change she 
 was told, that her “ Maker was her husband,” who should 
 be “called the God of the whole earth;” he took up 
 what lie conceived to be the spirit of the passage in two 
 exhortations, viz. Expect great things — Attempt 
 great things. The effect of this discourse was consi- 
 derable. A resolution was passed, that a plan should be 
 prepared against the next ministers’ meeting at Ketteiing 
 for forming a society for propagating the gospel among the 
 heathen; and Mr. Carey generously engaged to devote 
 the profits which might arise from his late publication on 
 the subject, to the use of such a society. 
 
 In agreeing upon a plan we had no difficulties to en- 
 counter from diversity of opinion, for in every thing of 
 importance there was a happy unanimity. We con- 
 versed on all subjects, without debating on any. The 
 general principles on which the society was formed 
 were, — in respect of civil government, to yield a cordial 
 and unreserved obedience in every thing consistent with 
 our duty to God; and in respect of Christians of other 
 denominations, to cherish a catholic spirit towards them, 
 and engage in a ready co-operation with them in every 
 thing which did not require a sacrifice of religious prin- 
 ciple. Considering the present divided state of Christ- 
 endom however it appeared to us that each denomination 
 by exerting itself separately would.be most likely to an- 
 swer the great ends of a mission. Hence the name by 
 which we at first chose to designate ourselves was. The 
 
s 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 particular (or Calvinistic) baptist society for propagating 
 the gospel among the heathen. But so far were we from 
 having in view the exclusive promotion of our own pe- 
 culiar principles, as Baptists, that we were determined 
 from the beginning, if ho opportunity appeared for send- 
 ing out missionaries of oiir own, that we would assist 
 other societies already in being amongst the Presbyteri- 
 ans and the Moravians. 
 
 Some of the greatest difficulties which we had to en- 
 counter were the following : we were inexperienced in 
 the work — we knew of no opening for a mission in any 
 one part of the world more than another — we had no 
 funds to meet the expense that must attend an under- 
 taking of the kind — our situation in an inland part of 
 the country was inconvenient for foreign correspondence 
 — the persons who would have the management would 
 live at such a distance from each other as to render fre- 
 quent consultation impracticable — and finally, in form- 
 ing a society there w'ould be danger of its falling under 
 irreligious influence. From these and other considera- 
 tions those who were expected to engage in the work 
 entered upon it with much fear and trembling. 
 
 On Oct. 2. 1792, the ministers met at Kettering, and 
 after the public work of the day was over, retired for 
 prayer. They then, in a most solemn manner, pledged 
 themselves to God, and to one another, to make a trial 
 for introducing the gospel amongst the heathen. They 
 were not insensible of their want of experience, but 
 hoped that He whose cause it was, would endue them 
 with wisdom as occasions required, and guide them with 
 his eye. — As to funds, they opened a subscription at the 
 time, the amount of which, though only 2s. Od. 
 
 was sufficient for present purposes. They had no idea 
 of appealing to the public till a more specific object 
 could be proposed to their consideration. — In respect of 
 
9 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 foreign correspondence , they hoped to find friends at the 
 different sea-ports who would be willing to assist them, 
 which hope has been fully realized. — As to the difficulty 
 of a number of persons residing in different parts of the 
 kingdom acting together , thtj' felt themselves obliged to 
 encounter it as well as they could, and to supply the 
 want of personal intercourse by writing. On this ac- 
 count however they found it impracticable to have a 
 large acting committee, or for the members of it to go 
 out at certain periods, and others to be chosen in their 
 stead. Finally, with respect to preserving the society 
 from irreligious influence, though every person who 
 should subscribe 10£. at once, or 10s. 6d. per annum 
 was considered a member, yet as the committee, to 
 whom the management was intrusted, consisted either of 
 ministers, or respectable characters in the different 
 churches, who would act without any pecuniary reward, 
 and whose places as they should die, would be filled up 
 at a general meeting by others of like character, it was 
 thought as great a preservative as human means could 
 suggest; and such it lias hitherto proved. The names 
 of the first committee w ere, John Ryland, Reynold Hogg, 
 William Carey, John Sulclff, and Andrew Fuller. Rey- 
 nold Hogg was chosen Treasurer, and Andrew Fuller 
 Secretary. 
 
 Mr. Pearce of Birmingham w r as present at this meet- 
 ing, and entered into the undertaking with all his heart. 
 On returning home he stated particulars to his friends, 
 who immediately formed an assistant society amongst 
 themselves, and collected 70f. towards the fund. 
 
 On Oct. 31. 1792, a meeting was held at Northamp- 
 ton. Mr. Pearce was added to the committee, and an 
 address to the public ordered to be drawn up. 
 
 On. Nov. 13, the committee met again at Northamp- 
 ton. Hear they learned that Mr. John Thomas, who 
 
10 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 had been several years in Bengal, preaching the gospel 
 to the natives, was then in London, endeavouring to 
 establish a fund for a mission to that country, and that 
 he was desirous of engaging a companion to return with 
 him to the work. The committee considered this as a 
 probable opening in providence, and resolved that the 
 secretary should make inquiry concerning Mr. Thomas, 
 as to his character, principles, abilities, success, &c. that 
 if things should prove agreeable, he might be invited 
 to go out as one of their missionaries. 
 
 Inquiry was made, and the accounts which were re- 
 ceived proved satisfactory. It appeared that Mr. Tho- 
 mas was by profession a surgeon ; that after having em- 
 braced the gospel under the ministry of Dr. Slennett, he 
 in the year 1783 went out as Surgeon of the Oxford 
 East Indiaman; that while he was in Bengal he felt a 
 desire to communicate the gospel to the natives; and 
 that being encouraged to do so by a religious friend, be 
 obtained his discharge from the ship, and after learning 
 the language, continued from the year 1 7 S7 to 1791 
 preaching Christ in different parts of the country, fie 
 described the Hindoos as superstitious ; attached to 
 what is called cast , and very immoral.; but tolerant, and 
 willing to hear whatever was respectfully addressed to 
 them. He also mentioned a few individuals of whose 
 conversion to Christ be entertained hope; namely Ram 
 JBoshoo. Moliun Chund. and Parlotce. The two latter 
 
 i 7 7 
 
 were brahmans. 
 
 On Jan. 10. 1793, a committee meeting was held at 
 Kettering, when the secretary reported the result of his 
 inauiries respecting Mr. Thomas, which was satisfactory 
 to all present. The committee being fully of opinion 
 that a door was now open for a mission to the East fn- 
 dies, resolved to invite Mr. Thomas to go out as one of 
 their missionaries; and to endeavour to furnish him 
 
1 1 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 with a colleague. Mr. Carey being present, raid his 
 mind towards missionary work well known, was asked 
 if lie were willing to accompany Mr. Thomas? To 
 which he readily answered in the affirmative. 
 
 Within the last two or three years Mr. Carey had re- 
 moved from Moulton to Leicester, hut had never lost 
 sight of this great object, nor concealed from the people 
 he served his earnest desire, whenever opportunity offer- 
 ed, to engage in it; and though the church at Leicester 
 were greatly attached to him, and he to them, yet when 
 they heard of his consenting to go, they could not con- 
 scientiously object to it, blit freely gave him up, trusting 
 in God to supply them with another pastor. 
 
 In the former part of this meeting Mr. Thomas was 
 not present; the committee however were employed in 
 reading his papers, which had been communicated to 
 them. Til the evening he himself arrived at Kettering, 
 and fully acceded to all that was proposed to him. 
 
 The committee then resolved to support him, and Mr. 
 Carev, with their families, to the utmost of their power, 
 till they should be able to support themselves. 
 
 The next step was to calculate the expenseof sending 
 them out, and to obtain the means of defraying it. The 
 expense was estimated at 500 £ ; which sum required to 
 be raised in about three or four months. To accomplish 
 this the- committee frankly stated to the religious public 
 their plan, requesting that so far as it appeared to be de- 
 serving of encouragement, they' would encourage it. 
 Letters also were addressed to the most active ministers 
 of the denomination throughout the kingdom, requesting 
 their concurrence and assistance. The result was, that 
 more than twice the sum which had been asked for was 
 collected: yet when the work was finished, the actual 
 expense had so far exceeded the estimate, that there 
 were only a few pounds to spare. One. principal cause 
 
12 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 ( 
 
 of this was the circumstance of Mr. Carey’s zchole fami- 
 ly, with Mrs. Carey’s sister, being induced to accompany 
 him. At first it was supposed that Mr. Carey would go 
 out with only his eldest son, and with a view of return- 
 ing: but when things came to a crisis, Mrs. Carey con- 
 sented to go with him, provided her sister would accom- 
 pany her; and this circumstance, though it added to the 
 expense, yet, upon the whole, was considered as favour- 
 able to the object. 
 
 On Mar. 20. 1795, a meeting was held at Leicester for 
 prayer, and the solemn designation of the missionaries. 
 At this meeting Messrs. Faxcctt of Ilcbden Bridge, 
 Hopper of Nottingham, Mills of Sheepshead, Blundel 
 of Arnsby, Stoughton of Northampton, Morris of Clip- 
 stone, Yates of Leicester, Bruin of Glenn, Trinder of 
 Northampton, Wilson of Olney, and Hobson ofWalgrave, 
 were added to the committee. 
 
 Our brethren set sail on June 13. 1793, on board the 
 Princessa Maria, a Danish Indlaman. After their de- 
 parture we had time for reflexion. In reviewing the 
 events of a few preceding months we were much impres- 
 sed. We could scarcely believe that such a number of 
 impediments had in so short a time been removed. The 
 fear and trembling which had possessed us at the outset, 
 had insensibly given way to hope and joy. Upborne by 
 the magnitude of the object, and by the encouraging 
 promises of God, we had found difficulties subside as 
 we approached them, and ways opened beyond all our 
 expectations. The thought of having done something 
 towards enlarging the bounderies of our Saviour’s king- 
 dom, and of rescuing poor Heathens and Mahometans 
 from under Satan’s yoke, rejoiced our hearts. We were 
 glad also to see the people of God offering so willingly; 
 some leaving their country, others pouring in their pro- 
 perty, and all uniting in prayers to heaven fora blessing. 
 
1793. 
 
 IS 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 A new bond of union was furnished between distant minis- 
 ters and churches. Somewho had backslidden from God 
 were restored, and others who had long been poring over 
 their unfruitfulness, and questioning the reality of their 
 personal religion, having their attention directed to 
 Christ and his kingdom, lost their fears, and found that 
 peace which in other pursuits they had sought in vain. 
 Christians of different denominations discovered a com- 
 mon bond of affection ; and instead of always dwelling 
 on things wherein they differed, found their account in 
 uniting in those wherein they were agreed. In short, 
 our hearts were enlarged; and if no other good had aris- 
 en from the undertaking than the effect produced upon 
 our own minds, and the minds of Christians in our own 
 country, it were more than equal to the expense. 
 
 SECTION II. 
 
 THE ARRIVAL OF THE MISSIONARIES IN INDIA, AND THEIR 
 SETTLEMENT IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF MALDA. 
 
 After many anxious thoughts about our brethren, 
 letters were received on July 29. 1794, informing us of 
 their safe arrival, and containing a few particulars, as to 
 their difficulties and their prospects. They met with 
 Ram Boshoo, soon after their arrival; but found to their 
 grief that he had not kept himself from idols. The let- 
 ters, upon the whole, contained as much encouragement 
 could be expected. We afterwards learned however. 
 
 c 
 
14 
 
 Brief Narrative [sect. ii. 
 
 that for the first three or four months, Mr. Carey was re- 
 duced to great straits and trials. Through a number of 
 occurrences, which he could not prevent, the investment, 
 which was taken out for their immediate support, was 
 sunk ; and he, with his wife and family, in a foreign land, 
 were utterly destitute of the means of subsistence. Tak- 
 ing his family with him, he went about forty miles east 
 of Calcutta in a boat. On Feb. G. 1794, he stopped at 
 Dehatta, the residence of the late Charles Short, Esq., 
 w ho afterwards married his wife’s sister, and whose gene- 
 rosity and kindness in a time of such extremity, ought 
 never to be forgotton! 
 
 In this neighbourhood he built him a house, or tent, 
 and thought of taking land, and of cultivating it for his 
 support : but early in March he received a letter from 
 Malda, inviting him to go, with his family, and lake the 
 oversight of an Indigo-factory, belonging to Mr. U — . 
 His colleague also, Mr. Thomas, who had stopped at 
 Calcutta, under an idea of supporting himself by bis pro- 
 fession, received a little before, a similar invitation. 
 Circumstanced as they were, they could not but consider 
 it as an interposition in providence in favour both of 
 them and their object, and accordingly complied with 
 it. 
 
 This undertaking however occasioned some reflexions 
 at home, chiefly among those who were not so fully ac- 
 quainted with theterms on which the missionaries left their 
 country, which were, that they were to be supported by 
 the Society till they should be able to support themselves. 
 Conscious as they were of acting from the purest mo- 
 tives, the fears which were entertained by some lest they 
 should get entangled in worldly pursuits, grieved them. 
 The strain in which Mr. Carey wrote in his Journal at 
 the time is sufficiently expressive of his disinterested re- 
 gard for the mission. “ What is there (says he) in all 
 
1794.] 
 
 15 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 this world worth living for, hut the presence and service 
 of God? I feel a burning desire that all the world may 
 know this God, and serye him. Oh, how r long will it be 
 ere [ shall know so much of the language of the country 
 as to preach Christ crucified in it!'" — “ i am resolved to 
 write to the Society that my circumstances are such that 
 I shall not need their future support, and to devote a 
 sum monthly for the printing of the Bengalee Bible.” 
 Mr. Carey was not able to set off ior Malda till 
 May 23, 1794. W hile thus detained he seems to have 
 felt much from the want of Christian society, and of 
 being able to preach to the natives ; and yet to have been 
 greatly supported. I seem, (says he in his journal of 
 April 8.) to be cast out of the Christian world, and am 
 unable yet to speak with any advantage to the heathens. 
 I have no friend to stir up, or encourage me in the things 
 of God. The infidelity of Europeans grieves me. 
 They tell me that the conversion of the natives is impos- 
 sible. In England I should not be discouraged by the 
 sayings of unbelievers: but here I have no Christian 
 friend to sympathize with me; nor am I able to tnake 
 the trial by preaching the gospel. All my hope is in 
 God. Without his power no European could possibly 
 he converted, and his power can convert any Hindoo. 
 When I reflect that HE hath stirred me up to the work, 
 rind wrought wonders in preparing the way, I can hope in 
 his promises, and am encouraged and strengthened.” 
 
 It was observed, that under all the trials of the first 
 year, our dear brother in his communications to the So- 
 ciety made the least of them; and was much more con- 
 cerned lest they should be discouraged than for any 
 thing which he himself endured. 
 
 Arriving at Malda on June 15, he found biinself in 
 very agreeable society. Next day he preached twice in 
 English, and his friend and colleague, Mr. Thomas, met 
 
[sect. it. 
 
 1C Brief Nat rathe 
 
 him. His pleasure was great on this occasion, being 
 heightened by the recollection of the last six months. 
 " I feel (said he) as if released from a prison, and restored 
 to the joys of Christian fellowship. — Surely the Lord is 
 not thus making room for us, and removing every diffi- 
 culty out of the way, without some gracious designs to- 
 wards us.” 
 
 Mr. Carey then accepted the superintendence of an 
 Indigo-factory at Madnabatty, and Mr. Thomas of ano- 
 ther at Moypauldiggy , both in the neighbourhood of 
 Malda; and covenants were granted to them by the 
 British Government. Letters were then sent to England 
 expressing great pleasure in their being able to decline 
 at present any farther assistance, and hoping that the 
 funds of the society would be employed in another mis- 
 sion. 
 
 On the arrival of these letters a meeting was held at 
 Arnsby, April 7, 179o. The question was put respecting 
 another mission, and which was thought by all present 
 to be desirable. At the same time two young men, Mr. 
 Jacob Grigg and Mr. Jas. Rodway, had offered them- 
 selves as missionaries, and were considered as suitable 
 persons. The committee therefore resolved on another 
 mission to Africa, in the neighbourhood of Sierra Leone. 
 In the autumn of 17 9b, the missionaries left England: 
 but through the indiscretion of one of them, and the ill 
 health of the other, the undertaking failed. 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Ilogg, finding his situation inconsistent 
 with the treasurership, proposed to resign it. The com- 
 mittee thanked Mr. Hogg for his past attentions, and 
 chose in his stead Mr. King of Birmingham. Mr. 
 Jos. Dent of Northampton was at the same time chosen 
 a member of the committee instead of Mr. Trinder de- 
 ceased. The members also of the Assistant society at 
 Birmingham were incorporated into the committee of 
 
1794 .] 
 
 17 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 the Primary society. At the same time it was resolved 
 to propose it to the subscribers in the next Number of 
 the Periodical Accounts, Whether a small part of the 
 society’s funds might not be properly applied to the en- 
 couragement of preaching the gospel in the most unen- 
 lightened villages in our own country. 
 
 In the spring of I79 l "h Mr. John Fountain , offering 
 himself as a missionary, was accepted, and sent out to 
 join the brethren in India. The same year it was pro- 
 posed that two of the Bristol students during the vaca- 
 tion should supply the churches at Salisbury and Brough- 
 ton, and that Mr. Saffery and Mr. Steadman, the pastors 
 of those churches, should be requested for that time to 
 preach the gospel through the county of Cornwall. 
 This request was complied with ; and as it was thought 
 to be productive of good effects, the same was repeated 
 the next year by Messrs. Steadman and Franklin. 
 
 The above measures were engaged in mostly under an 
 idea that our brethren in India were now able to support 
 themselves; but in a little time they found their resour- 
 ces precarious, and again requested our assistance. It 
 was then resolved to pay them the whole of their arrears, 
 and to continue to allow them as from the beginning. 
 
 SECTION III. 
 
 PROGRESS OF THE MISSION IN BENGAL FROM 1794 to l‘/99. 
 
 J. HE missionaries being settled as superintendents of 
 the Indigo works at Mudnabatty and Moypauldiggv, 
 they had each an opportunity of addressing the work- 
 

 Brief Narrative 
 
 [sect. in. 
 
 men, and of making excursions to the surrounding villa- 
 ges. But during the first year Mr. Carey had repealed 
 attacks of an intermittent fever, with adysentery. Mrs. 
 Carey also, and their eldest son, were much afflicted ; 
 and their third son, Peter , at five years of age, died of a 
 mortification in his bowels. As soon as they were able 
 to apply themselves to the work, they set up schools at 
 their respective factories; preached every Lord’s day, 
 and frequently on week days; and Mr. Thomas was par- 
 ticularly kind to the poor in administering medicines, and 
 conversing with them. Many people besides the work- 
 men attended their preaching. But for a considerable 
 time it seemed to be without effect. There were however 
 a Mr. Long, and a Mr. Pan el/, two Englishmen who had 
 settled in Bengal, who were each baptised ; and on Nov. 
 1. 1795, they, with the missionaries, formed a church, 
 and commemorated the Lord’s death in the supper. 
 Mr. Long was afterwards excluded for improper con- 
 duct; but Mr. Powell continued an useful character till 
 his death, which was at Dinagepore, on Sept. 0. 5 , t80'2. 
 
 After two years labour some appeared to be impressed 
 by the word. “My pundit, (says Mr. Thomas) asks 
 questions, sheds tears and requests parts of the scripture# 
 of us.” His name was Podo Loson. Mr. Carey also en- 
 tertained considerable hopes of a young brahman of the 
 name of Cassindut. The brahman, Mohun Chund , also, 
 who had professed to believe the gospel, while Mr. Tho- 
 mas was first in India, came to them, and continued for 
 some time with them. Toward the end of 1795* just at the 
 time of Mr. Fountain’s arrival, there were several Maho- 
 medans who appeared not a little promising; particular- 
 ly, Sooktriun at Mudnabaty, and Yardee, Doorgotleca , 
 &c. at Moypauldiggy ; where also there was a general 
 attention to the word. But none of them had resolution 
 enough to give up their cast, nor have they since asso- 
 ciated with Christians. 
 
3 71H — 1799 ] of the Baptist Mission. 1# 
 
 These disappointments must have been very discou- 
 raging; yet, while the parties continued promising, 
 they served no doubt to strengthen the hands of the 
 missionaries. Early in 1797 they visited Bootan, and 
 were kindly treated by the Soubah, a person in au- 
 thority. The effect was, a desire, whenever opportunity 
 offered, to introduce the gospel into the country. 
 
 Nor were the whole of their labours in this neigh- 
 bourhood in vain. Mr. Carey was situated within about 
 thirty, and Mr. Thomas within about fifteen English 
 miles of the city of Dinag epore, containing a popula- 
 tion equal to Birmingham or Manchester. From this 
 city a letter was received, signed by five Hindoos, inti- 
 matins: that about three years before that time the 
 brahman Mohan Chiind had been there, and had told 
 them a little about the gospel of God ; promising also to 
 send them certain parts of the translation, but which 
 had not been sent. The object of the letter was to re- 
 quest a sight of the translation, and some person to be 
 sent to give them further instruction. 
 
 About the same time they heard of a Mr. Ignatius 
 Fernandez, a gentleman of Portuguese extraction, resid- 
 ing in that city, who was desirous of hearing the gos- 
 pel. Upon the whole they determined to go. First 
 Mr. Fountain and Mr. Pow r ell went over: then Mr. 
 Fernandez paid a visit to Mr. Thomas; and afterwards 
 Mr. Carey went and preached. Mr. Fernandez em- 
 braced the gospel with much affection, and proved a 
 mostaimable and valuable character. At his own ex- 
 pense he built a place for Christian worship, and his 
 heart and house were always open to the missionaries. 
 Here also they met with Mr. William Cuninghame, 
 Register of the civil court, and assistant to the Magis- 
 trate at Dinagepore, whose regards to them and the 
 gospel greatly endeared him to them. From the magis- 
 
20 Brief Narrative [sect. nr. 
 
 trate himself also they received much friendly treat- 
 ment. 
 
 Mr. Fernandez was afterwards baptized. . It was at 
 his house that Mr. Fountain, Mr. Thomas, and Mr. 
 Powell died. He is at this time the diligent and useful 
 pastor of a church in the same place. 
 
 Nor was the introduction of the gospel at Hitiagepore 
 the only permanent effect of the labours of the mission- 
 aries in the neighbourhood of Malda. About fifty lad9 
 were taught to read and write, who would otherwise have 
 known nothing. It was there too that the scriptures 
 were translated into the Bengalee language, ready to be 
 printed as soon as opportunity offered. We have also 
 of late been informed of pleasing appearances in that 
 neighbourhood by the ministry of some of the native 
 preachers. May they reap in joy the harvest for which 
 the missionaries sowed in tears ! 
 
 SECTION IV. 
 
 FOUR OTHER MISSIONARIES SENT OUT, AND THE SEAT OF 
 THE MISSION REMOVED TO SERAMFORE. 
 
 As repeated requests had been made for more mis- 
 sionaries, and particularly for one who should understand 
 the printing business, the committee paid every possible 
 attention to this object. In the spring of 1799, they 
 were enabled to send out four men and four women; 
 namely, Mr. and Mrs. Mars/man , Mr. and Mrs. Grant , 
 
£1 
 
 1794 — 1 799-3 °f l ' ie Baptist Mission. 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. Brunsdon, Mr William Ward, and Miss 
 Tidd. Mr. Ward understood the printing business, and 
 M r. and Mrs. Marshman had kept a school. 
 
 The instructions given them were, among other things, 
 to “beware, both from a principle of conscience and 
 from a regard to their own interest, and that of the mis- 
 sion, of intermeddling with any political concerns — to 
 be obedient to the laws in all civil affairs— to respect 
 magistrates, both supreme and subordinate, and teach 
 the same things to others — in fine, to apply themselves 
 wholly to the all-important concerns of that evangelical 
 service to which they had so solemnly dedicated them- 
 selves. Moreover, that “ however gross might be the 
 idolatries, and heathenish superstitions that might fall 
 under their notice, they should sedulously avoid all rude- 
 ness, insult, or interruption, during the observance of 
 such superstitions, observing no methods but those of 
 Christ and his apostles, namely, the persevering use of 
 scripture, reason, prayer, meekness, and love.” 
 
 Our brethren embarked on board the Criterion, com- 
 manded by Captain Wickes, on May 25, 1799; and 
 after an agreeable voyage, arrived at the Danish settle- 
 ment of Serampore on Oct. IS, of the same year. From 
 thence they wrote to Mr. Carey, and wailed his an- 
 swer. 
 
 On Lord’s-day Oct. 27, they had public worship, and 
 the Danish Governor (Col. Bie) with seveial other gen- 
 tlemen attended.— The same day Mr. Grant was taken 
 ill of a cold, attended with a kind of stupor; and the 
 following thursday died! The Governor, his family, 
 and a number of Europeans, attended the funeral. 
 
 On Nov. 9, Mr Fountain arrived from Mudnabatty, 
 and was married to Miss Tidd; and on the 14th, he and 
 Mr. Ward set off to visit Mr. Carey at that place. 
 
 Ci rcumstances at this time were difficult, and delicate. 
 Mr. Carey had made all the interest he could that the 
 
 D 
 
[SECT. IV. 
 
 2'i Brief Narrative 
 
 four missionaries, and their wives, might be permitted to 
 proceed and settle in the neighbourhood of Malda, but 
 without effect. As they could not come to him, the only 
 alternative was, whether he should go to them, or whe- 
 ther they should labour separately. The decision of 
 this question was the object of Mr. Ward’s journey. 
 
 In respect of M udnabalty, the factory at that place 
 had, owing to the failure of the crops, been given up; 
 and Mr. Carey, with a view to provide for the mission, 
 had taken a small place at Kidderpore, about twelve 
 miles distant, where he intended to carry on a little busi- 
 ness, and to erect some dwellings for the other mission- 
 aries. The relinquishing of this undertaking would be 
 a loss of 50CL£. They had formed a church — God had 
 given them some Europeans for their hire — a degree of 
 light had been diffused among the natives — a school was 
 established* — the state of things atDinagepore was pro- 
 mising — the society would be burdened with new ex- 
 pences, 8cc. &c. On the other hand, Mr. Carey’s en- 
 gagements at Mudnabatty were within a few weeks of 
 terminating — at Seram pore they would meet with pro- 
 tection and accommodation — the great ends of the mis- 
 sion, particularly the printing of the scriptures, were 
 likely to be answered in that situation rather than in the 
 other — the country was more populous — All things con- 
 sidered, Mr. Carey determined to remove. It was not 
 a light matter to him ; but a necessity seemed to be laid 
 upon him. On Jan. 10. 1800, he arrived at Serampore; 
 and the next day w r as introduced to the Governor, who 
 received him in a very friendly manner. 
 
 The first object of attention was to settle a plan of fa- 
 mily government. All the missionaries were to preach 
 »nd pray in turn ; one to superintend the affairs of the 
 
 • This however roust have bean givem up on rttuorinj to Kidderpure, 
 tonally st t« Serampore. 
 
23 
 
 3 794 — 1799-] of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 family for a month, and then another; Mr. Carey was 
 appointed Treasurer and keeper of the medicine chest; 
 Mr. Fountain librarian; Saturday evening was devoted 
 to adjusting any differences which might arise during 
 the week, and pledging themselves to love one another; 
 finally, it was resolved that no one should engage in any 
 private trade; but that whatever was done by any mem- 
 ber of the family, should be done for the benefit of the 
 mission. 
 
 The rent of the lodgings which they at present occu- 
 pied *was very high. They therefore purchased a house, 
 by the river-side, with a pretty large piece of ground. 
 It had various accommodations, but the price alarmed 
 them; yet the rent in four years would have amounted 
 to the purchase. 
 
 Mr. Carey having nearly finished the translation of 
 the old and new testament into Bengalee; having also 
 obtained a press, and agreed with a letter-founder at 
 Calcutta for types, all things were now in readiness for 
 printing. Accordingly, the press being set up, under 
 the direction of Mr. Ward, they proceeded to advertise 
 for subscribers to the Bengalee Bible. And as it was 
 necessary for their support to attend to printing in ge- 
 neral, and to open a school to be superintended by Mr. 
 and Mrs. Marshman, each was included in the adver- 
 tisement. As an encouragement at the out-set, they 
 were promised the Government-printing, and the teach- 
 ing of the Governor’s children. Some inquiry was made 
 by the Governor-General, respecting the press ; but on 
 being informed that (official papers for the Danish Go- 
 vernment excepted) its operations were confined to the 
 printing of the Scriptures, and religious tracts; and that 
 the missionaries made it an invariable rule to print no- 
 thing of a political nature, he was satisfied, 
 
S4 
 
 Brief 'Narrative 
 
 [ sect . t . 
 
 SECTION V. 
 
 PROGRESS OF THE MISSION AT SERAMPORE FROM 1800 it 
 1807 , CONTAINING THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS UNDER 
 EACH YEAR SUCCESSIVELY. 
 
 1800. 
 
 As soon as the missionaries were settled at Seram pore, 
 those who had acquired (lie language began preaching 
 the gospel both in the town and neighbourhood. The 
 first sneet of the Bengalee New Testament was struck off 
 May 1 6 . They printed 2000 copies, besides five hun- 
 dred of the gospel by Matthew, for immediate distribu- 
 tion. Early in June they opened a Bengalee school, 
 in which' the children of those natives who chose to send 
 them, were taught gratis; and bv the 20th of July 
 there were forty scholars. A native of the name of 
 Gokool, residing at Serampore, appeared to be much af- 
 fected with what he heard and saw. Early in August, 
 Mr. Ward speaks of having had Mr. Carey’s two eldest 
 sons in his room for religious conversation arid instruc- 
 tion ; and says, <c they wept, read, prayed, and asked 
 questions.” “ All our brethren, (says Mr. Carey, about 
 the same lime) have lately been more than usually soli- 
 citous for the spread of the gospel.” 
 
 Mr. Fountain had been visited by T a severe dysentery’, 
 which laid him aside for several weeks. He had so far 
 recovered how’ever as to set off with Mrs. Fountain on a 
 journey up the country, and on July 2fith reached Di- 
 nagepore. By letters which he wrote to his brethren it 
 
1800 .] 
 
 55 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 appeared that he was nearly recovered ; but the disorder 
 returned, and on Aug. 20th, at the houscof Mr. Fernan- 
 dez, he died. All was done for him that medical skill 
 and Christian kindness could do; but all was ineffectual. 
 He was resigned and happy. 
 
 In October, Mr. Marshman and Mr. Ward began to 
 preach to the natives ; and Felix Carey going out with 
 the latter, addressed them in a striking, simple, and evan- 
 gelical strain. 
 
 Soon after this an afflicted lady came up the river 
 from Calcutta. She intended to have gone farther, but 
 feeling herself unable, stopped at Serampore. Having 
 taken lodgings at the hotel, she inquired for an English 
 prayer-book. As no such article could be had at the 
 hotel, her desire was communicated to the missiona- 
 ries. But neither could they furnish her with the arti- 
 cle she wanted. Mr. Marshman, however, ^role her 
 a friendly note, and accompanied it with two other 
 books, pointing out the way to everlasting life. The 
 lady came next morning to the mission house, apparent- 
 ly in great distress of mind, and enquiring what she must 
 do? She requested permission to stop during family 
 worship. The h}’mn sung on that occasion was, “ Come 
 ye sinners, poor and wretched.” She was greatly affect- 
 ed, and asked leave to attend with them every day dur- 
 ing her continuance at Serampore. After this she was 
 desirous of hearing more about the way of salvation, 
 and Mr. Marshman discoursed on the atonement as the 
 ground of acceptance with God, read the agony in the 
 garden, the 53rd chapter of Isaiah, and the third chap- 
 ter ol the Romans, while jhe with the greatest eager- 
 ness drank in the doctrine of the cross. In a short time 
 she returned to Calcutta, and died ; and, they had every 
 reason to hope, in the faith of Christ. 
 
 After the lady’s decease, Mr. Marshman saw her hus- 
 band, from whose account of her last end his hopes were 
 
26 
 
 [sect. r. 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 strengthened. The event also appeared to have made a 
 considerable impression on his mind. He proved lo be 
 conversant with thebible, andj’et totally ignorant of the 
 way of salvation. He was quite astonished at what was 
 stated to him from Rom. iii. 23 — 28. After a long and 
 serious conversation, nearly at midnight, they both 
 kneeled down, and prayed in succession. The gentle- 
 man’s name was Rolt. He was afterwards baptized, and 
 married for his second wife Mr. Brunsdon’s widow. 
 
 Mr. Thomas, who was preaching in Bheerboom, 
 about the end of October paid a visit at Serampore, and 
 brought with him a Hindoo, whose name was Fakira, 
 of whom he entertained great hopes. Fakira of his own 
 accord proposed to be baptised, and all were satisfied 
 with his profession : but before the time, he left Seram- 
 pore, and went amongst his relatives, with a view, as he 
 eaid, fir|t to fetch his child. Whether his resolution 
 failed him, or whether he was forcibly detained by his 
 relations, the missionaries heard no more of him. 
 
 During this visit, Mr. Thomas’s conversations and 
 prayers were observed to be more than usually impres- 
 sive. He himself says, in his journal of Oct. 12., “ f 
 longed for the out-pouring of God’s Spirit, and did ask 
 for it believingly for an hour or more together. At 
 midnight 1 was enabled to pour out strong cries and 
 supplications to God.” Speaking also of the other mis- 
 sionaries, he says, “ The holy unction appears on them 
 all, especially of late.” A weekly prayer-meeting was 
 set up at Mr. Thomas’s desire, for the success of the 
 mission ; and what was observed ol Mr. Carey, seems to 
 have been common to them all, that the death of Christ 
 teas more and more the theme of their preaching. 
 
 Early in November many repaired to the Mission- 
 House for the gospel by Matthew, which was given to 
 all who desired it. On the 25th, Mr. Thomas was 
 called to attend a man whose arm was dislocated. After 
 
1800.] 
 
 27 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 the operation, he talked to him very impressively con- 
 cerning his salvation. The name of the man was Krist- 
 i io. He wept like a child, and even sobbed while Mr. 
 T. talked to him. Gokool, of whom mention has been 
 made before, lived near him, and was present at the 
 time. Two days after this, Kristno wanted to come to 
 the Mission-house for instruction; for he said, they 
 had not onlv cured his arm, but brought hi in the news 
 of salvation. He and Gokool came together, and heard 
 the word. The consequence was, Gokool’s wife and 
 family deserted him; but those of Kristno were like- 
 minded with himself. The family of the latter was then 
 visited. The women appeared to have learned more of 
 the gospel than was expected ; and after having heard 
 it more particularly explained, they declared for Christ. 
 
 On the 22nd of December, Gokool and Kristno came 
 and ate publicly with the missionaries, by which act 
 they threw away their cast. The servants, and as many 
 as witnessed it, were astonished, as they had all said, 
 .No one would lose cast for the gospei : nor were the 
 missionaries much short of being so. Thev saw that 
 day what they had been waiting and hoping for many 
 years, and concerning which they had met with so 
 many disappointments. This insurmountable difficulty, 
 as it had been considered, seemed now to give way 
 without any effort on the part of the missionaries. 
 “ God,” as Mr. Marshman observed, ,{ has done it with 
 perfect ease. Thus the door of faith is opened to the 
 gentiles; who shall shut it? The chain of the cast is 
 broken, who shall mend it?” 
 
 The same evening, Gokool without his family, but 
 Kristno with his, came and offered themselves willingly 
 to the church, each making a solemn profession of faith in 
 Christ, and of obedience to his commands. Their hearts, 
 to use the words of Gokool, seemed w nailed to Christ.” 
 Mr. Thoma* was almost overcome with joy. At the 
 
[sect. y. 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 close of the meeting they all stood up and sung, “ Sal- 
 vation, O the joyful sound, &c.” 
 
 It was soon noised abroad that these people had lost 
 cast ; and now a time of trial drew near. The next day 
 a great company of people assembled, two thousand or 
 thereabouts, pouring out their execrations upon them. 
 Taking them by force, they first dragged them before the 
 Danish magistrate; but he, instead of censuring, com- 
 mended them for what they had done. Being dismissed, 
 they came a second time with Kristno with a new charge, 
 accusing him of refusing to deliver up li is daughter to a 
 man who had contracted for her in marriage. The ma- 
 gistrate however defended Kristno, and assured the girl 
 that she should not be compelled to marry the man a- 
 gainst her consent. The Governor also promised the 
 missionaries that they should not be interrupted in 
 baptizing. 
 
 The hubbub that had thus been raised, did not shake 
 the resolution of Kristno; but his family, and Gokool 
 were intimidated by it. On the 27th they sent to the 
 mission-house, saying, “ they wished to put off their bap- 
 tism for a few weeks.” The next day, (Lord’s day the 
 28th) was the time appointed for baptizing. Kristno 
 came forward, and with Felix Carey, was baptized in 
 the Ilooglv. A considerable number of Europeans and 
 natives attended ; many of whom appeared to'be struck 
 with the solemnity of the ordinance. “ When Kristno 
 came from dressing, (which here is a very short work) a 
 German lady who was present, look Tiiin by the hand, 
 and held him for some moments. She was unable to 
 make him understand her words, but she manifestly 
 thanked him in her heart for having renounced the wor- 
 ship of devils. After the Lord’s supper had been cele- 
 brated, Kristno said he was “ full ofjoy.” 
 
IS01.J 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 *9 
 
 On the first day of January, Mr. Fernandez, with his 
 son, and Mr. Powell, arrived from Dinagepore. His 
 design was to be baptized, and to place his son at school. 
 Gokool having absented himself from the missionaries,* 
 was sitting melancholy in his house. Kristno’s heart 
 was happy, and his conversations and prayers in his fa- 
 mily appear to have been blessed to the restoring of 
 them to a right mind. Being asked by a European in 
 the street, “ What lie got by his late profession of Chris- 
 tianity?” Unanswered, “ he got nothing but joy and 
 comfort: it was the work of love.” 
 
 On Lord’s day the 18th, Mr. Fernandez, and Joymooni 
 (Kristno’s wife’s sister) were baptized and joined the 
 church. At a conversation meeting on the 22nd, she 
 said, “ she had found a treasure in Christ greater than 
 every thing else in this world.” Kristno said his 
 “ chief thoughts now were about the salvation of 
 others.” 
 
 About this time Mr. Ward called on a Scotch gentle- 
 man who had met with some severe worldly losses. lie 
 said lie was religiously educated, and that this restrain- 
 ed him a good deal till he came into India, when he be- 
 came like other Europeans. Ten years ago his troubles 
 came on. They failed however to produce any good in 
 him. He came to Serampore five years since, but con- 
 tinued to live without God till be attended worship at 
 the mission bouse, when he felt a new kind of sensations. 
 After that be borrowed and read the most valuable books 
 in the mission library. His happiest hours, lie said, 
 were at a throne of graCfc. His bible was to him a new 
 book. His afflictions appeared in a new and interesting 
 light. The law was new; and the way of salvation was 
 precious. 
 
 E 
 
. 1 Brief Narrative 
 
 [se,ct. v. 
 
 30 
 
 A widow of the name of U/wa, who lived in Kristno’s 
 family, was observed to weep in hearing Mr. Ward dis- 
 course to them. She came afterwards with the other 
 women to the mission-house. She said one day to Air. 
 Carey, “ formerly, 1 never saw my sins: now I perceive 
 that I am a sea of sin,” On Feb. 13ih, she made an open 
 profession of Christ’s name. Jlusoo also (Kristno’s wife) 
 •was present, and appeared to be of the same mind. On 
 Lord’s day, the C2nd, they were both baptized. 
 
 The effect of these baplizings was, that all the children 
 of the 1’eugalee school were taken away by their pa- 
 rents, lest they should be made Christians; and the only 
 children left for instruction were those of Kristno, to 
 whom the missionaries now paid the greater attention, 
 and amongst whom there were some hopeful appear-? 
 ances. 
 
 The baptized Hindoos appeared to grow much in 
 knowledge and affection. Their manner of speaking 
 was singular and impressive. w Christ, (said one) is my 
 joy, my hope, my all. If worldly things draw my mind 
 from him, I say, Mind, why dost thou leave Christ? 
 There is no other Saviour. If thou leave him, thou fallest 
 into hell. I charge thee, mind, that thou keep close to 
 Christ.” — ‘ f 1 was formerly (said another) in prison. The 
 light of the gospel came to the prison door, and I got out. 
 My prayer now is, that Satan may imprison me no more. 
 1 call to mind continually the sufferings of Christ.” 
 
 The printing of the New Testament being finished, a 
 meeting for thanksgiving was appointed. Copies were 
 presented to the Governor, and the Governor Gene- 
 ral, which were favourably received. All things wore 
 an encouraging aspect; except that the state of Mr. 
 Brunsdou's health excited strong apprehensions that 
 they would he called to part with him. 
 
 In April, Kristno’s eldest daughter, Goluo/c, was forci- 
 bly taken away by the person who had contracted for 
 
1801 .] 
 
 31 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 her in marriage, and carried to Calcutta. As she was 
 passing by a police office she cried out for justice; 
 The men who carried iter off were of course detained. 
 When the magistrate enquired into her complaint, she 
 answered, “1 have heard of the love and sufferings of 
 Christ: these things have laid hold of my mind : 1 am a 
 Christian of choice ; and am not willing to go with this 
 man.” The magistrate said, He “could not separate 
 them, but would take care that she should profess what 
 religion she chose.” This however was what he could 
 not, or did not perform : and the young woman was 
 much grieved at being left, contrary to her will, in the 
 hands of idolaters. It was also a great trial to Ki istno 
 and his family. The women endeavoured io find her 
 out, and to furnish her with a new testament and some 
 hymns. 
 
 About this time Mr. Carey was appointed by Mar- 
 quis Wellesley to an importan’ station in the New Col- 
 lege of Fort William. He had no expectation of any' 
 such application being made to him; and when it w T as 
 made had some hesitation as to complying with it, lest 
 it should interfere with his proper work as a missionary. 
 Nor did he accede to the appointment till he had con- 
 sulted with his brethren, who thought that it might pro- 
 mote rather than obstruct the great objects of the mis- 
 sion. Every temporal advantage that might arise from 
 it would, on the ground of their established rules, be 
 only so much added to the missionary stock. 
 
 On the morning of May 8lh, the British flag was 
 hoisted at Seram pore. At ten o’clock the missionaries 
 were ordered to appear at the Government house. On 
 presenting themselves they were treated with the utmost 
 civility both by the late Danish Governor, and the En- 
 glish Commander, and told to go on with their school, 
 preaching, &c. in the same peaceable way as before.-^- 
 On the 29 th, Gokool, who had fainted at the outset, came 
 
32 
 
 [sect. V. 
 
 Brief Karr alive 
 
 forward again, resolved to join the gospel standard, let 
 the consequences be what they might. On June 7th, he 
 was baptized ; and, what was more surprizing, his wife, 
 who had made such violent opposition, was present, and 
 seemed to express some approbation of the gospel. She 
 had listened to her husband more attentively of late, and 
 her prejudices seemed to be giving way. 
 
 Next day Mr. Carey accompanied Kristno to Calcutta 
 to see his daughter. He talked affectionately to the fa- 
 mily ; but while they seemed to be listening to his 
 words, he perceived something going forward indicative 
 of mischief. lie therefore stepped into his palanquin, 
 and ordered the bearers to take him away*. The opposi- 
 tion which they made to this, left very little doubt of its 
 being their intention to assassinate him. 
 
 Kristno was now in the habit of talking to his neigh- 
 bours who came to him at his work, in some such strain 
 as this: — “ In all your worship there is no fruht. None 
 of the debias died for sinners; but Jesus Christ came 
 into the world for Lh is. This is the greatest love I ever 
 heard of. At the house of the missionaries I have seen 
 such love as I never saw before. When a man believes 
 in Christ he gets a new mind. This is the fruit of be- 
 coming a Christian, &c. Sec.” The missionaries from 
 such specimens hoped that he would soon be able to 
 preach Ciuist to his countrymen. 
 
 On the 3rd of Juh], Mr. Brunsdon, after a long afflic- 
 tion, died at Calcutta. This, with the deaths which pre- 
 ceded it, was a heavy loss to the mission. Early in 
 Ju»ust, the missionaries were visited bv their much-re- 
 specled friend, Capt. Wickes, from Philadelphia ; who 
 rejoiced to hear of all the mercy and the truth which 
 (he Lord had shewn them. 
 
 Gokool's wife, whose name was Komal, had now be- 
 come an attentive hearer and believer of the gospel ; and 
 tissue was always considered asbeingof a frank and open 
 
1 - 801 .] 
 
 33 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 temper, the missionaries had the less apprehension of 
 being imposed upon. On the 4th of October , she was 
 baptized. “ We have now, (says Mr. Marshman) six 
 baptized Hindoos, whom we esteem more precious than 
 gems. Yet we need great prudence in our conduct to- 
 wards them. We have to encourage, to strengthen, to 
 counteract, to advise, to disapprove, to teach, and to do 
 all in such a manner as to endear our Saviour and our» 
 selves to them.” 
 
 About the same time the missionaries purchased the 
 bouse and premises adjoining their own. The garden 
 and out-buildings contained more than four acres of 
 land. By this addition they had room not only for the 
 schools, and for the printing and binding business, but 
 also for any new missionaries that might arrive. They 
 made themselves Trustees for the Society, as they had 
 done in the first purchase. 
 
 On the 13lh of this month died Mr. John Thomas , at 
 the house of Mr. Fernandez at Dinagepore. This was 
 -the fourth death that had taken place among the mis- 
 sionaries within the last two years ! For the Memoirs of 
 these four missionaries, we must refer to the Periodical 
 Accounts, Nos. vii — x. 
 
 During this month Mr. Ward and Kristno visited 
 certain parts of the country from_ whence persons had 
 come for religious instruction, preaching and distribut- 
 ing papers as they proceeded; and some of the women 
 went to visit their female relations up the country, 
 where they also conversed about the gospel. Mr. Ward 
 in his excursion was detained hy a police officer on much 
 the same grounds as have been lately alleged, namely, 
 that the Compamj had given no orders for the natives to 
 lose cast. Mr. W. assured him that the papers were 
 entirely religious; and on his offering to sign them 
 with his own name, ihe officer released him. The papers 
 thus signed were sent to Calcutta, and examined. 
 
34 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 [sect. v. 
 
 Some alleged that it was improper to attack the religion 
 of the natives; but others answered that there was no- 
 thing more in the papers than had been always tolerated 
 in the Roman Catholics in the Company’s territories. 
 Nothing therefore cauje of it; and during the adminis- 
 tration of Marquis Wellesley nothing more was heard on 
 the subject. During the months of November and De- 
 cember there were many people inquiring after the gos- 
 pel, and some hopeful appearances among the Portu- 
 guese Catholics at Calcutta. 
 
 In the course of this year. Col. Bie transmitted to his 
 Government an account of the settlement of the missi- 
 onaries at Serampore, in consequence of which his Da- 
 nish Majesty directed the Royal Coliege of Commerce 
 at Copenhagen to signify his pleasure to the Governor 
 of Serampore that the society of missionaries be consi- 
 dered as under his Majesty’s protection and patronage, 
 which they accordingly signified by a letter, bearing 
 date Sep. 5. 1801. 
 
 The Governor General also of British India was pleas- 
 ed to assure one of the missionaries, that he “ was per- 
 fectly acquainted with all the concerns and operations 
 at Serampore, and felt great satisfaction at their affairs 
 being attended with a degree of success.” 
 
 1802 . 
 
 This year was introduced by a solemn thanksgiving to 
 God for his great goodness during that which was past, 
 with the baptizing of a native of the name of Peturnber 
 S/iino-ce. He had about a month before read a- tract 
 which had so impressed his mind that he resolved to 
 find out the writer. On the 12th of December 1 SO 1 , he 
 came to the mission-house and heard the gospel ; on the 
 
1802.] 
 
 35 
 
 of the Baptist Mission . 
 
 20lh threw away his cast, and on January 3rd was bap- 
 tized. He appeared from the first to be very sincere 
 and decided, and has proved an honourable and useful 
 character. He is since dead.* 
 
 In th e first three months of this year there was much to 
 encourage, and much to try the missionaries. Persons 
 arrived from the district of Jessore for New Testaments 
 in consequence of having read some of the tracts distri- 
 buted in the preceding October; many were inquiring 
 after salvation ; several Europeans were impressed with 
 the reality of religion ; Letters on the evidences of Christi- 
 anity had been published in the Calcutta Gazette, and 
 were now reprinted at Serampore. — On the other hand, 
 some unpleasant things took place among the baptized, 
 which called for a faithful and prudent exercise of disci- 
 pline; difficulties also arose on the employment of the 
 converts; and cases occurred of husbands whose unbe- 
 lieving wives refused to live with them. 
 
 On lhe4lh of April, a native who had previously lost 
 cast, of the name of Syam Bass, was baptized. He prov- 
 ed to be a simple-hearted good man, and was instrumen- 
 tal to the conversion of one of his neighbours (Bharut;) 
 but died, or was murdered on a journey in the autumn of 
 the same year, about five months after his baptism. 
 
 About this time a brahman came to Serampore who 
 lived with Dulol. JJulol is a famous leader of a Hin- 
 doo sect. They are a kind of deists, setting light by the 
 superstitions of the country, and by the cast; but mak- 
 ing light also of sin, heaven and hell. He said that 
 Dulol sent him to get baptized first, and that he himself 
 would follow, and bring with him an hundred thousand 
 disciples! The missionaries had no faith in this tale: 
 they thought it right however to pay him a visit. For 
 this purpose Mr. Carey, Mr. Marshoiao, and Krislno 
 
 * See the Memoir of him in Periodical Accounts, No, vvii. 
 
36 
 
 Brief Narrative ' [sect. v. 
 
 (who had formerly been one of his disciples) set off for 
 Ghospara, the place of his residence. They perceived 
 him to be a designing man, living in state upon the era- 
 dulity of his followers ; and full of the notion that what- 
 ever evil we did, it was God that wrought it in us. After 
 a little friendly but faithful conversation, they parted. 
 The only favourable impression whick struck them was, 
 that this sect was calculated to shake the superstitions 
 of the country, and so might prove subservient to the 
 
 On Muy 10th, Mr. Ward and Mra. Fountain were 
 married. Heretofore the marriages had been performed 
 by an English clergyman : but having been advised to 
 marry their own people, they with the concurrence of 
 the civil authorities, drew up a simple form for the pur- 
 pose ; and the business was conducted much to the satis- 
 faction of all present. Soon after this, three Mus- 
 sulmans came from a distance of about 60 miles to in- 
 quire after this new tcay. The missionaries invited them 
 to stay a few days and judge. They were very inquisi- 
 tive, and stated their objections candidly. When the 
 way of salvation was pointed out, they paid great atten- 
 tion, and departed quite pleased with their visit, inviting 
 the missionaries into their part of the country. 
 
 Krislno having lost much of his former employment 
 by becoming a Christian, the Governor was very kind in 
 employing him. and in sending for his children to hear 
 them read. Kristno was also employed by Mr. Roll. 
 This kindness was the more acceptable, when others, 
 even Europeans, who pretended to be Christians, were 
 joining the idolaters in ridiculing and reproaching him. 
 
 The native free-school which had been deserted on 
 the first baptizing, began to recover its former state. 
 Its funds also which were supported by the liberal dona- 
 tions of the friends of the gospel in different parts of the 
 country, exceeded all expectation. 
 
ISO'?.] 
 
 37 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 Golook, Kristno’s eldest daughter, having returned to 
 her father’s house, prayed t lie missionaries to baptize 
 her. After waiting about a month, they complied with, 
 her request. She was baptized on June b — Miss Ru- 
 mohr also, a German lady who resided at Serampore, was 
 baptized on the 13th. At this tune, Mr. Marshmati 
 says, “ There is a greater number of inquirers than at 
 any former period.” 
 
 On Juh) 4, four more were baptized ; namely, Peroo a 
 Mussulman; Bharut a Hindoo, whose conversion was 
 occasioned by a conversation with Syacn Dass ; Petumber 
 Mittre, a kaist from Jessore; and Dropodee his wife. 
 
 Mr Marsh man going one evening about this time to 
 the house of Kristno, found them spinning. He inqui- 
 red into it, and found that what a woman might earn by 
 industry bears as great a proportion to the wages of a 
 man, as the same employment used to do in England. 
 He took occasion from thence to mention the advan- 
 tages which they as Christians would derive from indus- 
 try, frugality, and contentment with small things ; advert- 
 ing to the case of many poor but honourable Christians 
 in England, who thus adorned the gospel. This is a ne- 
 cessary lesson here, as their ideas of industry and ceco- 
 nomy are generally very lax. 
 
 Towards the end of this month a mussulman, whose 
 name was Moorad, came from Ponchetaluckphool, or as 
 they usually call it by way of contraction, Luckphool, 
 with an invitation from a considerable number of people 
 in that part of the country logo and preach the gospel to 
 them. It was determined that Mr. Marshman should 
 go with Moorad. They set out on the 10th of August, 
 taking Petumber Mittre aud Bharut with them. Arriv- 
 ing at Luckphool on LoiA’s-day the 15th, they stopped 
 under a large tree, which was the appointed place for 
 bearing. The people carne together and received them in 
 the most affectionate manner. Each sitting down on the 
 
 F 
 
[sect. ^r. 
 
 53 Brief Narrative 
 
 grass, they entered immediately on the subject. After 
 having heard with much earnestness for about half an 
 hour, they intreated the preacher to vest, and take some 
 refreshment. He did so, arid then renewed his subject. 
 They heard with great attention, put questions to him 
 as he proceeded, and insisted on proof for every thing; 
 but all in the most candid manner. The idea of God’s 
 haired of sin being manifested more by the death of 
 his Son, than if the whole world had been punished, 
 struck them sensibly. 
 
 Having discoursed four or five hours, Mr. M. ob- 
 served that they must needs be weary, and proposed to 
 retire to his boat. To this they consented ; but they 
 followed him to the boat, and while he lay down to sleep, 
 were in full conversation with Petumber. In about two 
 hours he rose, and renewed his work. Taking these 
 words as the ground of his discourse, “ We pray you in 
 Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God,” he described 
 the distance that sinners were at from God; and the in- 
 sufficiency of all other ways of reconciliation but the 
 gospel. — After this they retired to a veranda, where 
 they spent the evening, sitting round and asking questions 
 on Christ, the resurrection, a future state, £cc. At nine 
 o’clock Mr. M. retired full of thankfulness, and asto- 
 nishment, at what had passed in the day ! 
 
 These people, amounting to some hundreds, had for 
 the last fourteen years began to dislike the idolatry of 
 the country; and attaching themselves to a grave elderly 
 man, as their goroo or teacher, had from that time been 
 enquiring after the right way. Neelo (for that was the 
 old man’s name) had taught (hern that there Teas otie God, 
 zi'horn he called Father, who alone was to be worshipped ; 
 that sin was to be forsaken ; and that a farther revelation 
 teas to be expected. It was in consequence of his having 
 heard of the missionaries that Moorad was sent to Seram - 
 pore to request them to come and visit them. After 
 
1802.] 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. *[) 
 
 Mr. Marshman had spent the Lord’s-day amongst them, 
 as above related, the old man look him aside lor private 
 conversation, and appeared to be very averse to brah- 
 manistn, and friendly to the gospel as opposed to it, re- 
 commending it also to his people as. being the revelation 
 which he had given them to expect. Many of the peo- 
 ple accompanied Mr. Marshman several miles on his re- 
 turn, and seemed to part with him with much reluc- 
 tance. 
 
 “ I never saw any Hindoos, (says Mr. M.) except 
 Kristno’s family, listen to the gospel like these people: 
 time only can discover how they really feel towards it. 
 Their behaviour towards me was very affectionate. 
 
 In returning home, Mr. M. called on another goroo, 
 who had nearly 20,000 followers. His name was Seeb 
 Ram Dass, and his residence at Juggerdandakatty. 
 There was much less pomp and artifice in him than in 
 Dalai; and much less conviction and affection than in 
 Neeloo and his people at Luckphool. The general im- 
 pression was, that they were loosened from the Hindoo 
 and Mahomedan systems, which marked the hand of pro- 
 vidence, and might be introductory to the gospel. 
 
 On Stp. 4. Mr. Rolt of Calcutta was baptized, and 
 joined the church at Serampore. Upon the whole, many 
 things wore an encouraging aspect. They were balan- 
 ced however by others of a different complexion. Go- 
 kool required to be excluded, and Petumber Mittre to 
 be suspended. On the 25th, Mr. Powell died; and 
 about the same time Syam Dass was supposed to be 
 murdered. 
 
 On the 27th, three of the Luckphool people arrived at 
 Serampore, with intelligence of the brahmans having 
 raised a persecution against them. Mr. Marshman soon 
 after his departure had been hung in effigy by them ; and 
 these messengers on their setting out were hissed away 
 by the mob. They requested to be visited again. 
 
 i 
 
40 
 
 [sect. V. 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 On Oct. 11th, Mr. Ward and William Carey set out 
 with them for Luckphool. On their arrival they had 
 murh conversation with JSeeloo and his friends, who 
 agreed to sei up a school, and proposed building a place 
 for Christian worship. — During this year Mr. and Mrs. 
 Chamberlain were sent out by the committee to assist in 
 the labours ot the India Mission. 
 
 1803. 
 
 This year was introduced with some painful events 
 among the baptized natives. Kristno, though an upright 
 character upon the whole, yet by giving way to temper, 
 produced a schism in the church, which, had it not been 
 mauaged with great prudence, might have been of serious 
 consequence. By means of expostulation and forbear- 
 ance, all was rectified. 
 
 While these things exercised the patience of the mis- 
 sionaries, they were encouraged by perceiving symptoms 
 of repentance in Gokool, whom they had been obliged to 
 exclude; also by the coming of two inquirers after the 
 gospel, Boodhesa and Kristno Presaud. The former 
 was a mussulman ; and had made an eight day’s journey, 
 inconsequence of having seen a tract. The latter was a 
 young brahman from Dahatta. On Jan. 22nd, they 
 were botli baptized. Boodhesa being very desirous for 
 some person to go with him to his part of the country, 
 Kristno was appointed for that purpose. — On the 27th, 
 Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain arrived at Seratnpore. The 
 pleasure with which they were received by the native 
 Christians, as well as by the missionaries, was great. 
 “ They cannot talk our language (said they ;) but we 
 perceive that all our hearts are one: we are united in 
 the death of Christ.” — Towards the end of this month, 
 
1803.] 
 
 4 ! 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 besides the New Testament, the first volume of the Old, 
 the psalms, and a part of Isaiah were finished ; and began 
 to he a good deal read in different places. A new fount 
 of Naggree types was nearly compleated : and a house 
 was taken in Calcutta for preaching to both European? 
 and natives. 
 
 In February they speak of “ the affairs of the mission 
 growing more and more weighty.” Several new inqui- 
 rers arrived; amongst whom was Sheetaram a sooder, 
 from Bishoohurry in Jessore, and who on the 27 th was 
 baptized. The zeal, the simplicity, and the good con- 
 duct of this man proved, as will be seen, a great blessing 
 to several of lus relations and neighbours. 
 
 Gokool having of late discovered much of a right spi- 
 rit, was forgiven, and on March 5th, restored to commu- 
 nion. On the 6th, Petuinber Shingee began preaching 
 to a mixed congregation of Hindoos, M ussulmans, Ar- 
 menians, and English. After praying a short time with 
 fervor and consistency, lie sat down, and with his hands 
 joined together and stretched out, craved their attention. 
 
 He then spoke tor an hour with faithfulness and propri- 
 ety, and closed with prayer. The missionaries were 
 pleased and satisfied with this his first attempt ; and as it 
 was the first sermon from a native, considered it as an 
 important sera in the history of the mission, and the in- v 
 crease of such preachers to be the grand desideratum for 
 the conversion of the Hindoos. 
 
 The duly of a Christian native who had more than one 
 wife at the time of his conversion was discussed about 
 this time. The result, seems to have been this, that 
 though the New Testament condemns polygamy, vet 
 where the party has more wives than one at the time of 
 bis becoming a Christian, he is not required to put any of 
 them away, only that he shall be unqualified for the mi- 
 nistry. 
 
‘*-2 ' Brief Narrative [sect. v. 
 
 During this month, Mr. Marsh man paid another visit 
 to Luckphool, and talked seriously to those who profes- 
 sed to believe in Christ, and yet from fear of temporal in- 
 conveniences declined to be baptized in his name. It 
 appeared to Mr. M. from this visit very doubtful whe- 
 ther the zeal which these people discovered on his first 
 going amongst them, did not arise more from opposition 
 to tire power and influence of the brahmans, than from 
 any just sentiments of the gospel. 
 
 Lord’s-dav, April 3, was introduced by a morning 
 meeting of thanksgiving to God for bis mercies. After 
 breakfast, Sadutsa, the brother of Boodheesa, a farmer; 
 Ram Roleen, a young kaist, of respectable connexions in 
 Calcutta; and William Caret/, Mr. Carey’s second son, 
 were baptized. In the afternoon it was observed, they 
 had a lovely company at the Lord’s supper ; and that 
 their anxiety for converts to Christ was now in a measure 
 changed into anxiety for those who were already con- 
 verted. 
 
 The next day Kristgio Presaud was married to Onun- 
 cla, Kristno’s second daughter. The marriage was con- 
 ducted much in the same way as Mr. Ward’s had been. 
 Mr. Carey, after explaining the nature and ends of mar- 
 riage, and noticing the impropriety of the Hindoo cus- 
 toms, read certain portions of scriptuie, and after them 
 the marriage agreement. The parlies then with joined 
 hands promised love, faithfulness, obedience, &c. ; then 
 signed the agreement, to which others added their 
 names as witnesses. A prayer for a divine blessing fol- 
 lowed, and the whole was concluded with a temperate 
 and cheerful repast of raisins, plantains. See. The daj' 
 following they had a supper at the house of Kristno, the 
 bride’s father, where all sat down together without dis- 
 tinction of colour or country. This to spectators was 
 anew thing. It was begun and ended with prayer and 
 praise, and afforded a glorious triumph over the cast. 
 
1S03.] 
 
 43 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 On the 25, Shelaram arrived, bringing with him his 
 sister Oomaree, and two other persons ; namely, Golamec 
 a Mussulman, and Kyemee, a Hindoo widow, who were 
 desirous of hearing the gospel. — During this month se- 
 veral of the native brethren, as Kristno Presaud, Ram 
 lioteen, &c. went into the villages to talk with the peo- 
 ple about Christ. They were treated with abuse, but 
 bore it with Christian meekness, telling their abusers that 
 that they “ only did what every sect did, who, whether 
 Hindoos or Mussulmans, were allowed to perform their 
 poojahs in the streets; and that insults, stripes, and even 
 death were good for them, so that God by thenr did but 
 turn their hearts.” 
 
 On the 1st of Mai/, Tazoo, a Mussulman from Barro- 
 bazar, Radkamonec, a Hindoo woman from the same 
 place, and Gomaree the sister of Shetaram, were baptiz- 
 ed. The missionaries thought favourably of the two 
 other persons who came with Sheetaram ; but owing to 
 some circumstances which did not affect their character, 
 their baptism was deferred. Those who were baptized, 
 after being commended to the grace of God, returned to 
 their own homes. — Kristno Presaud, the young brahman, 
 delivered his first sermon in Bengalee, much to the satis- 
 faction of the brethren. — A letter from Chinsurah in- 
 forms them of the death of a lady who had been one of 
 Mrs. Marshman’s boarders, and that theie was hope in 
 her latter end. 
 
 On the 3rd of Juh /, Bkoycrub, or Bhyrub, a young 
 koolcn brahman, from the neighbourhood of Calcutta, 
 and John, formerly a Mussulman, of late called a Portu- 
 guese, were baptized. — Soon after this, Sheetaram re- 
 turns, bringing with him Golarnce and Kheymce, who on 
 the 19 th are baptized. 
 
 In August a new and improved edition of the Ben- 
 galee New Testament was begun, as only six hundred 
 copies remained of the first impression, 
 
44 
 
 [sect. v. 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 Tn September, Kristno visited Luckphool and Bishoo- 
 burry. On his return he gave a pleasing account of 
 Sheetaram’s walk in his family. The four members at 
 Bishoohurry observe the Lord’s day, and meet for wor- 
 ship. Others also come in an evening, and sit and talk 
 with him. Sheetaram is a mild inoffensive character, 
 greatly respected; and though unable to read, yet is very 
 active in recommending the Saviour. 
 
 Mr. Ward’s heal ill being impaired by too great an at- 
 tention to business, he thismonth took ajourney to Dina- 
 gepore, accompanied by young Fernandez, Kristno Pre- 
 saud, and Ram Roteen. They preached at many places. 
 Kristno Presaud addressed his countrymen with much 
 earnestness and fluency. The}' found Mr. Fernandez 
 full of love and good works towards the natives. Fie 
 supports a native school, and administers much relief to 
 the afflicted poor. 
 
 During the last three months some very improper con- 
 duct was found to have taken place among the younger 
 branches of one of the families of the Christian natives, 
 and in which some of the elder branches were more or 
 less implicated: but by a faithful and persevering use of 
 discipline, the parties were about this time restored to a 
 right state of mind, and to the fellowship of the church. 
 
 For several weeks past, Gokool seemed to be drawing 
 near his end. His mind was steadily fixed in the faith 
 of Christ. On October 7th, he died. “About two hours 
 before his death, (says Mr. Marshman) he called the na- 
 tive brethren round him to sing and pray. He was per- 
 fectly sensible, resigned, and tranquil. Some of the 
 neighbours had been trying to persuade him to employ a 
 native doctor; but as all their medicines are accom- 
 panied with heathen incantations, he refused them, say- 
 ing, he would have no physician but Jesus Christ. 
 “ How is it, said they, that you, who have turned to 
 Christ, should be thus afflicted ?” My affliction, replied 
 
1803.] of the 'Baptist Mission. 43 
 
 he, is on account of my sins: my Lord does all things 
 well. Observing Komal to weep (who was a most affec- 
 tionate wife) he said. Why do you weep for me? His 
 tranquil and happy end lias made a deep impression on 
 our frjends. They say one to another. May my mind be 
 as Go bool's zeds ! 
 
 As this was the first Christian native who had died, it 
 was the desire of the missionaries to set such an example 
 of Christian burial as might be favourable to the gospel. 
 A decent coffin was made for him by Kristno, lined at 
 his own expense, both inside and out, with white mus- 
 lin. A great number of people being assembled, they 
 sung an hymn; after this two of the missionaries and 
 two of the native brethren took up the corpse, and with 
 the assistance of two others, carried it to the grave. 
 Mr. Marsbman addressed the spectators. They appear- 
 ed to be much impressed by the love which Christians 
 discovered to one another even in death, and with the 
 difference between this and throwing their relations, half 
 dead, into the river, or burning, their bodies with perhaps 
 a solitary attendant. 
 
 On the 23rd of this month (October) a brahman from 
 Assam, near Boutan, having been two or three months at 
 Serampore, and professing to believe in Christ, was bap- 
 tized. His name was Pudmu Nabhu. 
 
 * On the 2nd of Novtmber, Sheetaram and Golamee ar- 
 rive, and bring with them an elderly man whose name 
 is Kobeer. After tarrying awhile, they depart, leaving 
 him, at his own desire, to hear more about the gospel. 
 
 In Decernbtr, Sheetaram returns to Serampore, and he 
 and Kobeer prevail on Mr. Marshman to visit their 
 neighbourhood; to which he consents, minding to take 
 Luekphool in his way. On the 23rd he set oul with 
 them, and took Kristno with him. At Luekphool they 
 were received as usual with kindness. Ket/oo, the old 
 •goroo, Sooker Bisfies, Torribut Bishess , Moorad x &c, 
 
 o 
 
46 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 [sect. t. 
 
 have some Christian notions, and support a Christian 
 school amongst them ; but are afraidto appear openly on 
 the side of Christ. Mr. M. discovers much heathenish 
 error in the conversation of old Neeloo, and finds them 
 all disbelieving in future punishment, and holding with 
 universal salvation. Coming to Bishoohurry, where 
 there aie four members, they are received with great af- 
 fection, and have a congregation, gathered by the pre- 
 vious invitation of Sheetaram. From thence, accompa- 
 nied by Sheetaram, they depart for Arenda, the village 
 of Kobeer. On their way they call, according to pro- 
 mise, on some who had been to hear the preceding even- 
 ing, where, in the yard of an aged and respectable far- 
 mer, they preach with much pleasure to about seventy 
 people. Arriving at the house of Kobeer they find him 
 to be the head of a family of more than twenty persons, 
 and greatly respected. After preaching and conversing 
 with many people, they, acccompanied by Kobeer and 
 Sheetaram, return to Serampore. 
 
 During this year the society presented a copy of the 
 New Testament, and of the Pentateuch, to his Majesty, 
 by the hands of Robert Bowyer, Esq. His Majesty was 
 pleased graciously to accept of them, and to direct that 
 his thanlo should be given to the society. During this 
 year also a plan was laid for translating the scripture* 
 into various other eastern languages. 
 
 1804. 
 
 In the autumn of the preceding year four more young 
 men had been set apart for the work of the mission ; viz. 
 John Biss , Richard Marion, JVilliam Moore, and Joshua 
 Rozce. On the 3rd of January in the present year, they 
 with their wives set sail for India, by way of America. 
 
 t 
 
1804.] 
 
 47 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 After a tedious and perilous voyage, during which they 
 received much kindness from friends, both in America 
 and at Madras, they all arrived safe at the place of their 
 destination. 
 
 To return to the proceedings at Serampore — On the 
 8th of January, John Fernandez is baptized. On the 
 l6lh bis father, Mr. Fernandez of Dinagepore, is set 
 apart to the work of the ministry. On his return from 
 Serampore, Pudmu Nabhu, the Assam brahman, goes 
 with him, in his way to his own country. Fears are en- 
 tertained for Boodheesa, Sadutsa, Tazoo, and Radhamo- 
 nee, who all live near to each other at Barrobazar. 
 
 On Feb. 5lh, a prayer meeting is held for a blessing on 
 the undertaking of Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlain, who were 
 about going to a new station. At the same time Kristno 
 and Petunlber Singo are solemnly set apart for the work 
 of the ministry, with prayer, and the laying on of hands. 
 
 In the course of this yea x, Jour teen more natives were 
 baptized. Among them were Kobeer of Arenda, whom 
 Mr. Marshman had visited at the close of the preceding 
 .year, and Ram Mohun, a brahman, who has since proved 
 a useful minister. As a list of the baptized w ill be given 
 at the end, we omit the names of many in the narrative. 
 
 On the J9lh of May, a letter is received from Mr. 
 Chamberlain, informing the brethren that he had taken 
 a piece of ground at Cutzca for a missionary station. 
 Two more schools are opened ; one at Arenda, under the 
 care of Kobeer; and the other at Bishoohurry, superin- 
 tended by Sheetaram. At these schools sdults as well as 
 children frequently attend for instruction. — Ten thousand 
 copies of Luke, the Acts, and the Epistle to the Romans, 
 are printed for distribution. 
 
 On July 7th, Tolaram died, but little more than three 
 months after Ins baptism. All w ho knew him spoke w-ell 
 of him. As he was borne to the grave by his brethren, 
 both Europeans and Natives, the spectators observed. 
 
43 Brief Narrative [sect. v. 
 
 “ This is great love: they are kind fo those that join 
 them, even to the last.” 
 
 On October 14th, Ram Mohun, the brahman who had 
 been baptized on April 1st, preached at Calcutta to about 
 forty natives, .and with much freedom declared unto 
 them the way of salvation. — Mohun, the husband of 
 Kristno’s eldest daughter, Golook, comes and lives with 
 her, and hears the gospel.— On the 23rd, Mr. Felix 
 Carey is married to a young person ol Calcutta. 
 
 On the 6lh of November, Mr. Ward sets off on a 
 visit to Jessore. Calling at Sooksaugur. finds Petum- 
 ber’s wife in a hopeful state of mind. Coming to Luck- 
 phoo), finds the school in rather a promising-condition, 
 but the people otherwise. Proceeding to Bishoohurrv, 
 lie found things more pleasing. A young man whose 
 name is Golook, and who superintends the school, ap- 
 peared to be on Christ’s side. Going from thence to 
 Arenda, he found Kobeer’s wife and children had left 
 him for fear of losing cast. From the same cause the 
 school was diminished. On reaching Sooksaugur, in his 
 way home, he is greatly affected with the afflictive intel- 
 ligence of the death ol Mrs. Chamberlain, who died at 
 Cutwa on the I4tii of Inis month. Her amiable spirit 
 had endeared her to all who knew’ her. — About this time 
 some of the native Christians are insulted and abused by 
 their heathen neighbours; but endure it with meekness. 
 
 Towards the, end of the year several disorders, and 
 and some defections lake place among the baptized. 
 Byrub the brahman, and afler him, Biihhoonaut Mittrec, 
 and Buioo,ine excludftl for immorality. Vet upon ihe 
 whole the missionaries are not disheartened. “ Not- 
 withstanding various disappointments and discourage- 
 ments (say they)' the church never appeared in a more 
 prosperous stale than at present.” Speaking of the 
 school, under Mr. Marshtnan, they represent it as a 
 nursery to the church; and of the press, under the di- 
 
 •f, < 
 
I 
 
 1804 .] of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 rection of Mr. Ward, as the grand engine of the mis- 
 sion. Bv means of the latter they hope to give the word 
 of God to many eastern nations. Estimating the extent 
 of the country, and the population, where those langua- 
 ges are spoken into which they are employed in trans- 
 lating it, they reckon the Bengalee and Maharaslra each 
 equal to Great Britain ; the Ootkul to Ireland ; the Tc- 
 linga and Kurnata each to England ; the Tamul to 
 Spain; and the Hindostanee to France and Italy. 
 
 1805. 
 
 This year was introduced by a plan for erecting a new 
 place of worship at Calcutta. On the first of January, 
 4800 rupees were subscribed towards it — On the 6th 
 Deep C/ntnd , the companion of Folick from Jessore, and 
 Mrs. Felix Caret/ were baptized. 
 
 A parcel of ground, with buildings upon it, adjoining 
 to the mission premises, being on sale, it was thought 
 advisable to secure it; and on March 28th it v\as pur- 
 chased for 14,000 rupees, or about ISOOa^. The money 
 was borrowed; but a warehouse belonging to the estate 
 was let, for nearly enough to pay the interest. 
 
 The spiritual state of the mission being at this time 
 rather low, a meeting for humiliation and prayer is held 
 on April 7th. The jame day Mo/tun, the husband of 
 Outlook, was baptized. 
 
 On the morning of Mat/ 17th, Mr Ward visited Pe_ 
 lu mberShingo, who was now very ill VV hile standing by 
 his bed side, the good old man spake - i*. follows: — “I do 
 not attribute it to my own wisdom, or to my own good- 
 ness, that 1 became a Christian. Il is all of grace! It is 
 all of grace! — I have tried all means for m\ recovery: 
 all are vain; God is my only hope. Life is good, death 
 
50 
 
 [sect. V. 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 is good; but to be wholly emancipated is better.” 
 
 Mr. Ward reminded him of the use of affliction to 
 wean us from the world. He answered, “ J have a wife, 
 a daughter, a son in-law, &c. I have tried to induce 
 them to embrace the gospel by presents, and by persua- 
 sions; but they refused. I atn therefore weaned from 
 them all. I can only pray for their salvation. This is 
 the only way in which I can now manifest my love to 
 them.” Reconsidered it, he said, as agreat honor that God 
 bad given him the respect of all his brethren. He spoke 
 with respect of Kristno Presaud, as the person who 
 amongst all the native brethren, most adorned the gos- 
 pel. He lamented many things amongst them. Many 
 of the brethren were now standing round the bed, and 
 hearing him, to whom Mr. Ward recommended the 
 dying advice of the venerable man as most weighty and 
 solemn. 
 
 The next day Col. Bie died, much respected and la- 
 mented as a Governor. A great part of the night pre- 
 ceding his death he was said to be praying most fervently 
 to the Saviour. The poor natives said at his interment, 
 “ Never shall we see another such a master!” 
 
 On June 2, Kanga/ee, a byraggee from the neighbour- 
 hood of Cutwa, and Caleb Hirons , brother of Mrs. Rolt, 
 lately arrived from England, were baptized. The former 
 had heard of the gospel, and had been seeking after 
 some person to give him further information, when he 
 met with Bydenaut, who told him all he wished to 
 know, and brought him to Seram pore. He was greatly 
 affected when speaking before the church. — On the loth 
 Sheelaram arrives with two of his neighbours; Bykonla , 
 of the writer cast, and Lochort, a husbandman. On the 
 G2nd they were both baptized. On July 7th, Mr. Joseph 
 May/in, an Englishman, who has long resided in the 
 upper provinces of India, having lately embraced the 
 gospel, is baptized. 
 
51 
 
 1805.] of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 On dtigust 4th, Kobeer arrives, bringing with him 
 Beeshonaut, a neighbour of his about thirty-five years 
 old, who is earnestly desirous to find the way of life. All 
 the native brethren, (who know the Hindoo character 
 much better than Europeans do) think well of him. On 
 the 18th he is baptized. — These successful labours of 
 Kobeer, Sheetaram, &.c. give the missionaries to perceive 
 more and more the importance of encouraging native 
 preachers. Kavvnye preached well the same day. 
 
 About four years ago, Mr. Ward, being on a visit at 
 Calcutta, went with Kristno to a village called Ram- 
 kreeshnopore, on the other side the river, opposite Cal- 
 cutta. Here they left a number of small tracts and a 
 New Testament; declaring, it seems, that “ the Testa- 
 ment was for the use of the whole village, and that he 
 who could read the best should keep it, and read it to 
 all who wished to hear it.” Till now the effects were un- 
 known. Kristno on revisiting the village meets with a 
 byraggec, who tells him that the books have been read, 
 and that several persons are convinced by them. 
 
 On the 2 1st of August, Petumber Shingo died. “A little 
 before his departure, (says Mr. Moore) he called the 
 brethren who were at hand, and desired them to sing 
 Kristno’s hymn, Salvation by the blood and righteousness 
 of Christ. And w hile they w ere thus engaged, the tears 
 of joy bedewed his placid face; and in this happy frame 
 of mind he breathed his last !” “ He has been (says 
 
 Mr. Carey) a very honourable member of the church. 
 His conversation on his death bed was highly encourag- 
 ing and edifying. He frequently observed that he had 
 obtained the peace which Paul wished in the in troduction 
 to his epistles.”* — Kristno, who visits Ramkreeshnopore y 
 or as they call it by contraction, Kreeshnoporc, is greatly 
 delighted to see the effects of the New Testament and 
 
 * See A Memoir of him in No. xviii. P. A. 
 
I 
 
 % 
 
 5'1 Brief Narrative [sect. v. 
 
 the tracts. He tells of ten or eleven persons at and in 
 the vicinity of Calcutta, who are inquiring “ How thev 
 may obtain the fruits of Christ’s death?” He is surpris- 
 ed at the knowledge they have obtained. — The next 
 morning after the interment of Petumber, two persons 
 came to the house, who from what they had heard and 
 seen, were much impressed in favour of the gospel. The 
 name of one of them was Goluk, a young man from 
 Calcutta After visiting the mission-house most days, 
 on the <27 lh he came to abide with them. 
 
 On Sept. 1st, Bhagvnt , a young brahman, and Felloo , 
 the mother of.Fotick, whom he had brought with him 
 from Jessore, are baptized. — About the same time the 
 relations of Goluk are using all means to induce him to 
 relinquish Christianity. Mr. Ward, after much conver- 
 sation with them, told them that they could not take him 
 away by force; and that they ought not if they could. 
 On leaving them he said to Goluk, “ Here are four of 
 your relations, and you have a mother also at Seram- 
 pore — If you choose, you may go with them; but if not, 
 go with me.” They allowed this was fair. The young 
 •man then said, “He would not go with them, but with 
 Mr. Ward,” who accordingly took him to the mission- 
 house; and on the 15th he was baptized. 
 
 During this month, Mr. Moore, Mr. Wm. Carey, and 
 three of the native brethren, set out on a missionary 
 lour through the country to Dhaccn, where being inter- 
 rupted bv a Collector, and afterwards by a Magistrate, 
 they were obliged to desist. On their return they called 
 on a congregation of H mdoo Catholics, with whom they 
 conversed freely, and offered them a New Testament; 
 but the priest being absent, they dare not receive it. 
 Though there did not appear to be auv thing like true 
 religion amongst these people, yet the missionaries 
 could not hut observe a difference as to their manners, 
 when compared with those of the heathen natives. They 
 
1803 .] 
 
 62 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 look well all that was said to them, and expressed their 
 gratitude for the visit. They were invited in return, to 
 visit Serampore, should any of them he coming that 
 way. v 
 
 On the 6th of October, the brethren Marshman and 
 Ward were chosen copastors with brother Carey; and 
 the brethren Mardon, Biss, Moore, Rowe, Kristno and 
 Kristno Presaud were set apart to the office of deacons. 
 During this and the two following months tioenty-one 
 persons were baptized, seven of whom came from Krist- 
 nopore, and were the fruits of the New Testament and 
 tracts which were left at that village. One of them, 
 named Kristnoo Dass, referring to Mr. Ward’s having 
 declared concerning the Testament, that “ It was for the 
 use of the whole village, and that lie who could read the 
 best should keep it, and read it to all who wished to hear 
 it,” said, “ He had got it, and that the reading of it had 
 changed his ideas, made him leave off' idolatry, and put 
 his trust in Christ.” The testament was produced, and 
 was nearly worn out by reading. Ten out of the twen- 
 ty one were baptized on November 3rd. “A solemn 
 seriousness, (says Mr. Biss), pervaded the company. 
 Some who seemed to know nothing of the power of re- 
 ligion, nevertheless shed tears.” At the Lord’s supper 
 there was great joj' through the whole church, singing, 
 and making melodv in their hearts to the Lord! 
 
 In the autumn of this year. Captain Wickes being in 
 London, the committee sent by him a thousand guineas 
 which had been collected in England, Scotland, and 
 Ireland, towards the translation of the scriptures into the 
 eastern languages. On the Captain’s arrival in Ameri- 
 ca, he expressed a wish in the public papers that the 
 friends of religion in his country would add something 
 to it. The result was, that by the generous exertions 
 of the different denominations, the original sum was 
 
 H 
 
Jj 4 Brief Narrative [sect. y. 
 
 fconsiderahly more than doubled, and sent in dollars to 
 Serampore. 
 
 1806. 
 
 In November 1805, the Secrelaiy received a letter 
 from Rob. Ralston, Esq. of Philadelphia, informing 
 him that Cap. Wickes would in the spring following 
 sail in a ship of his for Holland ; after which he would 
 touch at London, in his way to Bengal ; and that if we 
 had any persons or goods to send, he would take them 
 free of charge as to passage or freightage. The society 
 having two young men on probation, Mr. C/iater and 
 Mr. Robinson, availed themselves of this kind offer to 
 send them out. On April 12lh they set sail for Seram- 
 pore. 
 
 Early in Jarman/, Mr. Maylin and Mr. Fernandez 
 jun. set sail for England, by way of America. Mr. 
 Eernandez, sen. came down at this time to take leave 
 of his son, and brought with him two natives who wished 
 to be baptized. Their names were Kundkishore and 
 Heduram. On the 26 th they were baptized. On the 
 27th, a new church was formed for Dinagepore. Several 
 of the members who resided in that part of the country, 
 with Mr. and Mrs. Biss, were dismissed from the Seram- 
 pore church for this purpose; and who chose Mr. Fer- 
 nandez for their pastor. 
 
 A young man, of the name of Burford, grandson of a 
 baptist minister of that name, a predecessor of Mr. 
 Booth, heard Mr. Ward at Calcutta; and being deeply 
 impressed with a sense of his sins, came to Seramporeand 
 opened his mind to Mr. Ward. He wept much. A 
 few days after this, he seemed to find rest for his soul in 
 the doctrine of Christ, which was recommended to him. 
 
1806 .] 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 55 
 
 The principal events of the first six months of this 
 year are the following— Ground for the new chapel at 
 Calcutta, in a place called the Loll Bazar, is purchased 
 for 7250 rupees; and after investing it in the hands of 
 ten trustees, a shed or temporary mat-house is erected 
 for present use — Proposals for subscriptions to the trans- 
 lation of the scriptures into the eastern languages are 
 publicly advertized-, and by June, 14,000 rupees are 
 subscribed — Mr. Biss has a dangerous liver complaint — • 
 Seeboo, a native brother in Jessore, dies; and contrary 
 to li is own desire, is burnt after the manner of idolaters, 
 lied ies declaring his faith in Christ, and recommending 
 his wife to believe in him — Some are excluded for im- 
 morality; but others are received almost every month. 
 Out of about forty, received within a year, four or five 
 appear suspicious characters — The native preachers are 
 very active, and in general very acceptable — The shed 
 is opened in Calcutta, and many resort to it: some 
 hearing with great attention ; others mocking, and 
 loading both the missionaries and the native Christians 
 with reproach — The converts at Kristnopore suffer 
 much from their heathen neighbours ; but bear all with 
 patience and fortitude. During this period there ap- 
 pear to have been fourteen persons baptized ; among 
 whom were Mr. Ephraim Buford, the young man above 
 mentioned, and three more from Kristnopore, the village 
 where the New Testament was left, and read. Upon 
 the whole, things at this time wear a very promising ap- 
 pearance. “ We have, (says Mr. Marshman in a letter 
 of August 18th) the utmost reason for thankfulness with 
 regard to the whole of our affairs. In no period has the 
 mission appeared more promising.” 
 
 About the same time an extraordinary church meeting 
 was called, in which the native brethren were given to 
 understand the importance of their entering with all 
 their hearts into the great object of the mission, and 
 
56 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 [sett, v, 
 
 using all proper means to promote the salvation of their 
 countrymen; and that as they could not support their 
 families while engaged in this service, the church vvouid 
 allow them for the lime which was so employed. — Of 
 these itinerating excursions of the native brethren there 
 are two journals, printed in No. xvii. of the Periodical 
 Accounts, for a specimen; the one of Deep Chund, and 
 the other of Kristno Dass, both in the true spirit of 
 Christianity. % 
 
 But it was the will of God in the midst of these open- 
 ing prospects to try them, and that in a way to which 
 they had not been accustomed. 
 
 On August 5th, Air. Moore writes from Dinagepore, 
 that on their arrival at that city, a servant of the magis- 
 trate came to the boat demanding their names, occupa- 
 tion and place of residence; to which they readily made 
 answer, declaring also the object of their journey. The 
 result was, they were required to return to Serampore. 
 
 On the 23rd of August, the brethren Chalcr and Ro- 
 binson, with their wives, arrived in the ship, Benjamin 
 Franklin , Captain Wickes. On presenting themselves 
 at the police office, some demur was made as to their 
 being permitted to proceed to Serampore. Next day, 
 on Mr. Carey’s going to the office, he was told by one 
 of the magistrates that they had a message to him from 
 t lie Governor General, and which was, “ That as Govern- 
 ment did not interfere with the prejudices of the natives, 
 it was his request that Mr. Carey and his colleagues 
 would not.” This request, as explained by the Magis- 
 trates, amounted to this — “They w'ere not to preach to 
 the natives, nor suffer the native converts to preach ; 
 they were not to distribute religious tracts, nor suffer 
 the people to distribute them ; they were not to send 
 forth converted natives, nor to take any step, by conver- 
 sation or otherwise, for persuading the natives to em- 
 brace Christianity.” 
 
1806 .] 
 
 57 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 Mr. Carev inquired whether they had any written 
 communication from the Governor General; and was 
 answered in the negative. He then took leave of them, 
 assuring them that neither he nor his brethren wished 
 to do any thing disagreeable to Government from which 
 they could conscientiously abstain. 
 
 Some of the foregoing particulars, however, were soft- 
 ened in a subsequent conversation between the magis- 
 trates and a friend to the missionaries. “ It was not 
 meant, they then said, to prohibit Mr. Carev or his bre- 
 thren from preaching at Seram pore, or in their own 
 house at Calcutta; only they must not preach at the 
 Loll Bazar. It was not intended to prevent their circu- 
 lating the scriptures; but merely the tracts abusing the 
 Hindoo religion : and that there was no design to forbid 
 the native Christians conversing with their countrymen 
 on Christianity, only they must not go out under the 
 sanction of the missionaries.” ^ 
 
 The Governor General at this time was Sir George 
 Barlow, who not only professed to believe in Christianity, 
 but had expressed his persuasion that it would prevail 
 in India. The news of the Vellore mutiny had lately 
 reached Calcutta. 
 
 In a conversation that took place between the magis- 
 trates and a friend of the missionaries, they acknow- 
 ledged themselves “well satisfied with their character 
 and deportment, and that no complaint had ever been 
 lodged against them.” An order of council however was 
 passed, commanding Messrs. Chater and Robinson to 
 return to Europe, and refusing Cap. Wickes a clearance 
 unless he took them back with him. 
 
 This order being communicated, it was represented to 
 Government that Cap. YV. cleared out from Rotterdam 
 for Seram pore ; that his clearing out from England to 
 Seram pore was no more than a necessary step to accom- 
 plish the first intended voyage ; that Messrs. Chater and 
 
55 
 
 [SF.CT. V. 
 
 Brief Narrative 
 
 Robinson were then at Serampore, and had joined the 
 mission under their direction, and the protection of the 
 king of Denmark. 
 
 This representation produced an inquiry, whether the 
 mission was really under the protection of Denmark. 
 To this the Danish Governor gave an explicit answer. 
 An amicable discussion between the Captain and the 
 Magistrates followed, in which he assured them that 
 neither he nor the missionaries wished to give offence, 
 and that if friendly representation could not prevail, 
 rather than oppose Government, they would give up the 
 two brethren. Captain W. was on this furnished with 
 his passports. As Government however appeared to be 
 dissatisfied with the continuance of the two missionaries, 
 to remove every subject of complaint as far as they 
 could, a new mission to Rangoon, in the kingdom of 
 Burmah, was contemplated ; and Mr. Chater, with ano- 
 ther brother, agreed to go to that country to make ob- 
 servations on its practicability. 
 
 Here matters rested, and the missionaries went on 
 pretty much as usual, only that they had no preaching 
 at the Loll Bazar; and hoping that things in a little time 
 might take a favourable turn, devoted more of their at- 
 tention for the present to the instruction of the younger 
 missionaries, and less of it to itinerating excursions. 
 
 The adversaries of Christianity (of whom there are 
 many in India) not having fully accomplished their end 
 with the Government abroad, directed their attention to 
 that at home. A tract was translated and sent to En- 
 gland, in which the missionaries are represented as call- 
 ing the natives “ barbarians,” and their shasters “ barba- 
 rian shasters,” w hen in the original they had only in - 
 treated them not to reject the bible as being the shasler 
 of the barbarians or “ M' leeches fa. name by which they 
 designate all who are not of the cast. After this a 
 pham plet appeared by a Mr. Tu'ining, and w as followed 
 
59 
 
 ISOG.] of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 by several more, written by Major Scott Waring, and 
 others; some abounding in low abuse, others openly 
 espousing the cause of idolatry, and all filled with un- 
 founded statements, and ineffectual endeavours to trace 
 the Vellore mutiny to the attempts at christianizing the 
 natives. The charges produced in these pamphlets were 
 answered by the friends of the gospel. 
 
 While the missionaries were afflicted from one quar- 
 ter, they were encouraged from another. When the 
 Armenians and Portuguese in Calcutta perceived their 
 difficulties, they came forward, and fitted up places for 
 them on their own premises. From September to the 
 end of the year, seven more natives were baptized, and 
 a new mission to Rangoon undertaken. Mr. Chamber- 
 lain and Mr. Mardon were diligently engaged up the 
 country; but in September the former sustained a se- 
 cond bereavement in the death of his wife. On Dec. 
 23 ill the missionaries say, “ During the past year we 
 have baptized twenty two persons. These, with one at 
 Cutwa, and another at Dinagepore, make the whole 
 number baptized a hundred and four , ten of whom are 
 Europeans. In the course of the last six years we have 
 been under the necessity of excluding thirteen, and six 
 have been removed by death.” 
 
 Towards the close of the year an event occurred more 
 than ordinarily impressive. Three persons from Luck- 
 phool, Neeloo, Torribut, and Sookur Bishess, who had 
 long professed to believe the gospel, but declined an 
 open profession of it, came on a visit to Serampore. In 
 conversing with Sookur Bishess, the missionaries warned 
 him of the danger of temporizing in the manner he had 
 hitherto done, assuring him that if he was ashamed of 
 Christ before men, Christ would be ashamed of him be- 
 fore his Father and before his angels. He declared that 
 “ He thought there was no way to heaven besides the 
 Saviour, and that if he thought himself near death, he 
 
Brief Narratke 
 
 [sect. r. 
 
 09 
 
 would make an open profession of his name.” He vwis 
 then reminded of the uncertainty of life, and in treated 
 to consider whether his refusal to appear publicly on the 
 Lord’s side did not proceed from his secreth / regarding 
 sin , and fearing men more than God. The examples of 
 others of his countrymen were mentioned, to shew that 
 where the heart was really given to God every thing else 
 vanished. He seemed impressed, but not determitied. 
 On the sixth day after his return lie was murdered in his 
 own village, with circumstances peculiarly awful. It 
 seemshe had, though unknown to the missionaries,carried 
 on a criminal intercourse with a woman, some of whose 
 relations belonged to a gang of robbers. These men 
 had long resolved to be revenged on him ; and having 
 heard that he had been at Seram pore, the}' imagined he 
 must have obtained a sum of money there; an idea 
 which has been circulated from the beginning to scanda- 
 lize the gospel, though nothing can be more void of 
 truth. Thinking this a favourable opportunity, they 
 one night beset the house, where he and this woman 
 were; and after bringing them out bound, set fire to it. 
 Having loosed the woman, they threatened to throw' 
 him into the fire, unless he would discover where he had 
 hidden the supposed sum of money. He, probably 
 hoping to escape, led them to a tree at some distance, 
 and told them to dig uuderneath it. After digging 
 some time in vain, one of them enraged, pierced him 
 through with a spear, and shed out his bowels ; another 
 cut him across the breast; and a third cut off his 
 head ! 
 
1307.] 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 6l 
 
 1807 . 
 
 Mr. Biss’s complaint getting worse, he was ordered 
 by Dr. H. to return to Europe, as the only possible 
 mean of saving his life. On Jan. the 5th, he and his 
 family embarkad for America. During the first fortnight 
 his health seemed to be greatly amended ; but after this 
 he relapsed, and on Feb. 5, died ! 
 
 A Hindoo, whose name was Seeboo Roi/, having seen 
 some religious tracts, came to Cutwa for further instruc- 
 tion. He appears to have believed the gospel ; and be- 
 iuga person who had considerable influence in his vil- 
 lage, had recommended it to others. He kept up Chris- 
 tian worship in his own house on the Lord’s day, and 
 some of his neighbours attended with him. Mr. Cham- 
 berlain received much pleasure from him, and expected 
 that he would soon be baptised; but in the month of 
 January this year he died. His relations burned his 
 body, after the manner of the Hindoos, but it was con- 
 trary to his desire. He earnestly wished to have been 
 taken to Cutwa, instead of Gonga, to die. During his 
 illness he exhorted those who used to meet with him for 
 worship not to forsake the assembling of themselves to- 
 gether, nor to cease publishing the glories of the Savi- 
 our. “ I am going, (said he) but we shall soon see each 
 other again.” He had conversed much with his wife; 
 and when he died, she did not beat her forehead, and 
 cry aloud, as is the custom of vvo'men in that country on 
 such occasions. Being asked why she did not ; she 
 answered, “ What use is that? I sit and think of what 
 he said to me.” 
 
 On January the 24th, the brethren Mardon and Cha- 
 ter set sail for Rangoon. They had been recommended 
 
 t 
 
G<2 Brief Narrdtive [sect. t. 
 
 to the grace of God by the church at Serampore, with 
 many prayers for their prosperity. About the same time 
 cheering accounts are received from the neighbourhood 
 of Malda, where the native preachers are heard with 
 much interest, and treated with kindness by many of 
 their countrymen. Five or six hundred often assemble to 
 hear them, when no European is present.— Bi/konta, one 
 of the native brethren, returns from Jessore full of joy : 
 liis wife has forsaken her father’s house, resolved to cleave 
 to him, and to the Saviour. — At Cutwa, brother Cham- 
 berlain and several of the native Christians labour with 
 diligence and success. Three persons, namely, Komal, 
 Soogul Mookurgee (a Koolin brahman) and Vindyabund 
 (a byraggee) are baptised. — Things also appear promis- 
 ing at Dinagepore; and though at Serampore they have 
 baptised only one during the first three months, and la- 
 bour under some restrictions, yet the translating and 
 printing of the scriptures go on ; and upon the whole 
 they speak of their efforts to spread the gospel as being 
 but little diminished. — On March the 18th, Letters are 
 received from Rangoon, and every thing wears the most 
 favourable appearance as to that important undertaking. 
 
 During the months of April, May, and June, ten per- 
 sons were baptised ; among whom were a respectable 
 Portuguese family of Calcutta; nameljg Mr. and Mrs. 
 Derozio, and two of their daughters; also a Sarjeant 
 Oalfy, whose father was a member of the baptist church 
 at Kingslanly in Gouceslershire. — A new church was 
 formed in Jessore, of which Ram Mohun and Kawnee 
 were chosen deacons — the brethren at Cutwa were also 
 formed into a church — and a petition was presented to 
 Government for leave to erect a new chapel in Calcutta, 
 signed by one hundred and fifteen of the inhabitants, 
 many of whom were merchants of the first respectability, 
 and to which a favourable answer was returned. 
 
1807.] 
 
 63 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 On the SI st of May, Ram Mohun is set apart by 
 prayer and the laying on of hands for the work of the 
 ministry. 
 
 During this summer Mr. Fernandez was heavily af- 
 flicted. Two persons were on this account obliged to 
 wait some months for_ baptism. They were baptised 
 however on the 21st of June. Their names were Dhanu- 
 kora, and his wife Dhgshish- hurry. 
 
 In June and July, several Europeans correspond with 
 the missionaries, and afford pleasing hope of a work of 
 grace. One was reproved for his profane language, by 
 a Hindoo; another heard the Christian natives converse 
 about Christ, and was filled with shame at his own igno- 
 rance ; and another was impressed by his conversation 
 with a serious lady, whom he afterwards married. “ We 
 are acquainted with nine or ten, (says Mr. Moore) in 
 Calcutta, most of whom we knew not four months ago, 
 but who now afford us hope.” 
 
 On the 6th of July, at the monthly prayer meeting, a 
 consultation was held about the Mission to Burmah, and 
 the minds of the two brethren sounded as to their w il- 
 lingness to return to that country. Brother Chaterwas 
 still of the same mind ; but brother Mardon declined it 
 on account of ill health. He was afterwards succeeded 
 by brother Felix Carey. 
 
 On Lord’s day, Aug. 2, a soldier of the name of John 
 Axell, from the neighbourhood of Basingstoke in Hamp- 
 shire, was baptised by Mr. Ward, at Calcutta. The 
 same day were baptised by Mr. Carey at Serampore, a 
 native of the name of Seehou Ham , from Jessore, and a 
 Mr. Pritchet, a young man, the son of a clergyman of 
 South Wales. He had been taken prisoner by the 
 French, and carried into the Isle of France, where, 
 during his imprisonment he was brought to serious re- 
 flection on the state of his soul. 
 
64 
 
 Brief Narrative [sect. v. 
 
 About this time twelve of the Portuguese at Calcutta 
 sign an affectionate letter to Mr. Ward, expressing their 
 faith in the gospel, and'attachment to him as a minister 
 of it. 
 
 Soon after this, an event occurred which filled the 
 friends of the mission with deep concern, and furnished 
 its adversaries with a momentary triumph. A tract 
 which had been printed in Bengalee, and which in that 
 language contained nothing offensive, was put into the 
 hauds of a native to be translated into Persic. The 
 translation being finished, it was, through the pressure 
 of business, inadvertently printed without being first in- 
 spected by the missionaries. It proved, unhappily, that 
 the translator bad introduced several strong epithets, 
 calling Mahomet a tyrant &c.; which it was alleged 
 Would irritate his followers; and though no such effects 
 had been produced, ye\ a copy of it being convej'ed to a 
 person in office under Government, it was taken up in a 
 serious manner. Mr. Carey was sent for; but being tin-^ 
 acquainted with the circumstances of the case, he could 
 only acknowledge the impropriety of the epithets, and 
 promise to enquire into the cause of their appearance in 
 the tract in question. Had the object of the party been 
 merely to prevent the disturbance of the public tran- 
 quility, things would have issued here: Mr. Carey, on 
 learning particulars, would have made an apology, and 
 corrected whatever was improper. But before he had 
 time to do this, proceedings were commenced, which 
 had they been carried into execution, must have been 
 not only ruinous to the mission, but greatly injurious to 
 the cause of Christianity in India. In consequence 
 however of an explanation, and a respectful Memorial 
 presented to the Governor General, the most serious 
 part of the proceedings was formally revoked. On this 
 occasion two of the missionaries wailed on his Lordship 
 to thank him for the candour with which lie had attend- 
 
1807.] 
 
 03 
 
 of the Baptist Mission. 
 
 ed to their Memorial ; to which his Lordship replied, 
 that nothing more teas necessary than a mere examination 
 of (he subject, on which every thing hud appeared in a clear 
 and favourable light. 
 
 But as all the printed tracts had passed under exami- 
 nation, and as two others, as well as that in Persic, were 
 objected to, the missionaries were required in future, not 
 to print any tracts without first submitting the copy to 
 the inspection of Government. 
 
 Concerning the epithets &c. objected to, the mission- 
 aries say, “Thotlgh there is nothing in any of the tracts 
 but what would be perfectly harmless in England, and 
 has been actually so here; yet as such things lay us 
 open to animadversion from those. who are averse lo the 
 mission, and are of no use in the conversion of the na- 
 tives, we wish they had not been used.” — No restrictions 
 however were laid on the translation or circulation of 
 the Scriptures. 
 
 From the time that the Jessore brethren were formed 
 into a church, one of the native preachers has gone over 
 at least once in a month to assist them, and to adminis- 
 ter the Lord’s supper amongst them. Mr. William 
 Carey having visited them in September, gave a pleasing 
 accounton his return of what he saw and heard in some 
 parts of that district. He mentioned eight, or nine per- 
 sons, besides the members, who appeared to be inquir- 
 ing in good earnest what they must do to be saved. 
 
 On the till) of October, a Mr. and Mrs. Pittman 
 were baptised ; and on the 1st of November, Miss liil- 
 liamson, an English lady. 
 
 The state of public morals amongst Europeans is sup- 
 posed never to have been lower than at this time. Plays, 
 masquerades, and every species of dissipation, are on the 
 increase; and amongst people of this description it need 
 not be added, the religion of Jesus Christ is scouted. 
 Yet it prospers, even among Europeans; and though 
 
[sect. V. 
 
 0 & Brief Narrative , Sfc. 
 
 the natives plainly perceive that it is not the wish of 
 many of their superiors that they should become ehristi- 
 ans, yet they are not the less inclined to inquire after 
 the good and the right way. It may also be to the honour 
 of the gospel thus to make its way — “Not by might, nor 
 by power; but by ray Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” 
 
 The following is the stale of the translations, as given 
 by Mr. Carey, at the end of theyear I8O7. “ The work 
 
 of printing the scriptures is now going on in six lan- 
 guages, and that of translating them in six more. The 
 Bengalee is all printed, except from Judges vii. to the 
 end of Esther; The Sung&crit New Testament to Acts 
 xxvii.; the Orissa to John xxi ; the Mahratta (2nd ed.) 
 to the end of Matthew ; the Hindostanee (new version) 
 to Mark v.; and Matthew is begun printing in Gujer- 
 rattee. 
 
 <e The translation is carried on nearly to the end of 
 John, in Chinese, Telinga, Kurnata, and the language of 
 the Seeks. It is also carried on to a pretty large extent 
 in Persian, and begun in Burman. 
 
 The following is a list of persons baptised in Bengal , 
 belonging to the Church of Christ at Serampore, and the 
 other Churches formed from it. 
 
September 5 Janux lioU 
 
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 "A 
 
ORIENTAL LITERATURE 
 
 LATELY PUBLISHED , 
 
 Under the Patronage of the College of Fort William and the Asiatic Society. 
 
 Vol I. 
 
 OF THE CELEBRATED SUNGSKRIT POEM, 
 
 tiie 
 
 Ramaywntf, 
 
 IN THE ORIGINAL TEXT. 
 
 Carefully collated with the most authentic manuscripts, 
 with an English Translation, accompanied with eluci- 
 datory Notes. 
 
 Bi, TV. CAREY, D. D. 
 
 Professor of Bengalee and Sungskrit in the College of Fort William, 
 
 AND THE MISSIONARY - BRETHREN AT SERAM PORE. 
 
 Tixe work will be comprised in Nine volumes, demy quarto, containing 606 
 pages each. Price Fire Guineas per vol. 
 
 ALSO, 
 
 THE 
 
 Ramayz/n^ 
 
 TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH, WITH EXPLANATORY NOTES- 
 Vol. I. Demy octavo, extra boards, Price One Guinea. 
 
 A GRAMMAR 
 
 OF TJ1R 
 
 uttgsitjrit language. 
 
 Composed from the works of the most esteemed Grammarians. 
 
 TO WHICH ARE ADDED, 
 
 EXAMPLES FOR THE EXERCISE OF THE STUDENT, 
 And a complete list of the Dhatoos or Roots. 
 
 By W. Carey, D. D. 
 
 One Volume, large Quarto, containing about a thousand pages. 
 Price, Eight Guineas, Boards . 
 
 SOLD BY BLACK, PARRY AND CO. LEADF.NIIAT.L STREET $ AND BUTTON, 
 rATLUNOSTKR ROW, LONDON.