CHAPTER II.

DEPARTURE FOR INDIA--VOYAGE--ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA.

Early in the year 1806, Mr. Corrie took leave of his relatives and parishioners to embark for India. At that time, a voyage to India was looked upon as a much greater undertaking than it is considered at the present day. Accordingly on Mr. Corrie’s departure from his father’s house, the parishioners pressed round to take their leave of him; many of them deeply affected, believing “that they should see his face no more.”

After a prosperous journey to London and Portsmouth, he embarked (March 30, 1806) on board the _Asia_ East Indiaman, bound to Calcutta. Mr. C. was accompanied by a brother-Chaplain, the Rev. Joseph Parson, one of his most attached College friends. Among the passengers were many cadets, to several of whom Mr. C. was made useful, and became in after life their friend and counsellor. Some particulars of the voyage are subjoined from Mr. Corrie’s Journal and Letters, which shew the lively interest he took in the welfare of all around him, and indicate the steady purpose with which he kept in view the great work before him.

In his journal, Mr. C. writes under date of

“April 10th. This day I have completed my twenty-ninth year. In the review of the past year, O what reason have I to adore the divine mercy. Soon after I had determined on going to India, which was in June last, it pleased God to work by his word, and to raise a general attention to eternal things, amongst my people at Buckminster and Stoke, giving me real favour in their sight, for which I desire to praise Him, confessing that I am not worthy to be ranked amongst the meanest of His ministers. Some amongst them, I hope, were brought to God. O that they may continue to walk in the truth; and may each amongst them become Christians, not in name only, but in deed and in truth! Since I have been on the point of departing from England, every objection to the undertaking has been removed from my mind. My heart is set on the work of the Lord in India; and I would not draw back, as far as I know myself, to be made Archbishop of Canterbury. I have taken leave of my dear friends, most likely for ever in this world. I would dedicate every faculty of my soul and body to my redeeming God. Lord, accept me, working in me that which is well-pleasing in thy sight, through Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour; to whom with Thy blessed self, and Holy Spirit, Three persons in one Jehovah, be all glory, and honour, and praise, now and for evermore. Amen!

“April 14th. On Saturday afternoon, and yesterday morning, the wind blew quite a hurricane. In the night of Saturday, I could not sleep for the tossing of the ship: I lay meditating on death, and found my mind calm and resigned; but saw nothing in whatever I had done on which I could rely for a moment; saw nothing, in fact, but what was deficient and defiled with sin. Yet, in the consideration of the atonement, and intercession of Jesus, I could look _without dismay_, though not with any sensible joy, to a judgment-seat.

“Yesterday the wind was too high to admit of divine service. Much consideration about our danger during the preceding night; but, alas, little disposition to praise the Lord for his goodness! Some few of the passengers listened with attention, whilst I read a sermon on the poop. I had much conversation at intervals with several of them, on the subject of religion; and found some disposed to attend. Yesterday, passed one of the Salvage islands: to-day one of the Canaries (Palma.) No one who has not been for some time out of sight of land can conceive the delight which the view of these created; or the refreshment they afforded the eye. As stupendous monuments of the divine power, they ought to have raised more adoration in my heart to the great Supreme. But, alas! I find the more I get familiarized to the wonders with which I am surrounded, the less sensibly I feel my dependence on Him in whom I live and move. Blessed Saviour, O let me be accepted, and ever preserved through thy intercession, and kept by thy power through faith unto salvation. Amen.”

Whilst off the coast of Africa, Mr. Corrie relates that the Lady Burgess, one of the Indiamen in company with the Asia, struck upon a rock:

“The masts were cut away: the pinnace, contrary to expectation, floated, (for she filled with water,) and soon after was driven clear of the breakers, with about forty persons. As many as could swim plunged in, and about seventy at length got into her. The boat also was manned, and, by the exertions of the chief mate, the ladies, (six in number,) were put into her, and none allowed to go with them, lest, being crowded by too many, she should be swamped. The captain and some others who could not swim, were saved by laying themselves on planks; and, being drifted by the waves, were afterwards picked up by the boats. The Leopard’s boats saved about twenty-five. The ladies were received on board the Nelson; the greater part [of the crew] were taken up by the Melville, and some by the Sovereign and Alexander. About fifty perished; amongst whom were the first and sixth mates, the purser, and twenty-four cadets; the greater part of the others were Asiatics, with some soldiers.”

With reference to this melancholy occurrence, Mr. C. writes:

“Sunday, April 20. This morning has been spent in great anxiety. About two o’clock, I heard guns firing as signals of distress. When day broke, the wreck of a vessel was seen on the rocks, off the island Benevento. About eight boats were observed at a distance, and at ten o’clock we perceived one making towards the Asia. Soon after, a passenger of the Nelson, and one of the mates of the Lady Burgess, came on board, from whom we learnt that the unfortunate ship was the Lady Burgess, which was gone down with every part of the cargo. Six ladies, passengers, reached the Nelson in safety. The mate, after putting the ladies on board the Nelson, returned to the wreck, when her poop remained above water sufficiently to preserve life: on returning a second time, nothing was seen but part of the bowsprit, every creature had disappeared; but the Commodore, having sent several boats to their assistance, suggests a hope that all are saved. What reason have we of this ship to adore a kind Providence for being directed a different course! Alas, that such indifference, nay base rebellion [against God] should still appear! O let me not be as those who know not God, but grant me such a due sense of all thy mercies, O Lord, that my heart may be unfeignedly thankful, and that I may show forth thy praise not only with my lips, but in my life! Amen.”

The Journal proceeds:

“April 23rd, St. Iago.--Went on shore with the purser. On landing was struck by the scenery, which was quite new to me, and highly picturesque. Within the beach there is a low valley, having the appearance of a marsh, with shrubs growing in the shape of a pine-apple; it had a very pleasing effect. Water was here procured for the fleet. The town stands on a hill, on the right of the valley; and within the fortifications. At the foot of the ascent, and on the beach, were three officers riding on small lean ponies. Their clothes, ragged and much worn, were such a contrast to an Englishman’s idea of the word ‘officer,’ as to excite a smile. Further on were some slaves, in a state of nature, employed in breaking cocoa-nuts. At the entrance of the garrison stood a sentinel, without shoes or stockings, his other clothes hanging in rags, and having no lock to his musket; altogether, he reminded me of one of Sancho Panza’s guards. In the town, which consisted of two rows of huts, we found poultry, pine-apples, cocoa-nuts, &c. &c. for sale. The natives perfectly understood what are called ‘the tricks of trade.’ I am told they sell a kind of Port wine of inferior quality, mixed with rum to keep it from going sour; they have also a kind of gin, extracted from the sugar-cane. Their women are the most disgusting figures that can be conceived; many of them having only a covering round the waist; the men too like men in general; but one, a Caffre slave, was about seven feet high. The country presents a most barren appearance, being very hilly, and seldom visited with rain. After staying about three hours, I returned to the Asia, most thankful that my lot had been cast in Britain, and admiring the kindness of providence to that happy isle. Long may a gracious God exercise the same fatherly care over it! Long may England flourish, as the place which God hath chosen to put his name there!

“Sunday, April 27th. I had service on deck to-day, the sailors being very attentive; was much affected with languor, so that the day has passed in an unprofitable manner. I had a long conversation with G., and hope well of him again. Thought much of my dear relations; and had an affecting sense of the value of former privileges, ‘when I went to the house of God, with the voice of joy and gladness.’ O for the happy time when I shall be privileged to draw near to God without restraint! Blessed be His name for some sweet seasons in private. O may the impression of them remain, and be productive of holiness in heart and life!

“May 3rd. Yesterday the wind sprung up, a light breeze, and continues to drive us two knots an hour, after a calm of three days. In the night, we had a very narrow escape from running foul of the Alexander; the boats were about to be lowered from the idea that the ship might go down by the concussion. What reason to be thankful for preservation! O for a due sense of all thy mercies, my God and Saviour!

“Friday, May 11th. This day had divine service on deck: in the evening had a conversation with V. on the doctrine of the Atonement. He seemed much impressed, and said he had never before considered it; but hoped he should now make it the study of his life. Lord, work in him both to will and to do for Jesus Christ’s sake! Amen. I would record, to my shame, how feeble my efforts are for the eternal welfare of those around me; and, when I think of the shame I feel, I desire to be roused to greater exertions, lest Jesus Christ should profess himself ashamed of me at the last day. O the piercing thought of being excluded from thy blessed vision! Prevent it by thy grace! let me not fall, I pray.

“May 18th. Service on deck. Found much sweetness in private devotion, with a disposition to pray for my dear relatives and friends by name. My mind tolerably fixed on divine things, with boldness to speak to any that came in my way, on the subject of religion. I have of late observed with pleasure a great change in P.’s views and sentiments respecting scriptural truths; and a practice more correspondent thereto than formerly. This morning, he spoke with much feeling, on several experimental truths of Christianity; and I humbly hope, is no stranger to the power of them. O that I may be enabled to walk in wisdom towards him, and that he may be an honoured instrument in turning many to righteousness!

“Sunday, June 1st. I have neglected to make memoranda during the past week, and fear it is a symptom of spiritual decay: yet, I find, in general, much fixedness of mind in private prayer; and sometimes much tenderness of spirit. The Bible is my delight and daily counsellor; and I think I watch every opportunity of calling the attention of those around me to the things of eternity. Yet, I would confess to my shame, that these attempts are feeble, generally very unskilfully conducted, and little calculated to produce a good effect, and chiefly confined to more intimate associates. I plainly perceive that without a great exercise of divine power, I am totally unfit for the work of introducing the Gospel amongst the heathen; and much fear lest the objects of time and sense should divert me from that pursuit. Yet, Lord, thou knowest that to be instrumental in turning many unto righteousness is my highest ambition. This is the determination of my judgment; though, alas! my affections draw me powerfully to court the favour of man, and to covet ease. I perceive myself poor and blind, and miserable, and wretched, and lost, and undone; but O the joyful sound of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption in Christ Jesus for ruined sinners! Blessed Lord, grant me a spirit of faith, that I may apprehend this dear Redeemer; and by virtue of union with Him may obtain acquittal from all condemnation, and daily become more like Him, in righteousness and true holiness!”

To the Rev. J. Buckworth he wrote as follows:--

“We are in hopes of reaching Madras in nine weeks from this time; so that before you receive this, which comes by way of St. Helena, I shall, by the divine permission, be in India. Indeed, on this element, in a peculiar manner is the apostle’s limitation to be attended to, ‘If the Lord will, we shall do this or that.’ My dear friend will be ready to fear that an account of our spiritual voyage is to be excluded from this paper. Would that I could gladden your heart with tidings of a large fleet steering for the haven of everlasting blessedness; but on this subject my materials are scanty, though, blessed be God, some news of this kind I can send you.... We have twenty-two youths on board, going as cadets to India: of these a few allow me to talk freely and familiarly on the best subjects; the others treat me with civility, though sometimes they are shy of my company. One I sincerely hope is pious, though very volatile in his disposition: another attaches himself very much to me, and is much separated from his companions. These are the most promising among us, ‘the gleaning grapes, one or two, on the top of the uppermost boughs.’ I have distributed several Testaments, and other books; but observe no increase at present....

“My thoughts lead me now to Dewsbury, where I fancy I behold my dear friend and his dear partner, happy in each other, and happy in the love of Jesus; but not without some thorn, to remind them that their God has a more complete happiness in store for them. You will not need assurances that my daily prayers ascend on your behalf; nor need I ask you to believe that words cannot express the interest I feel in your welfare. May the richest blessings of Providence and of grace descend upon you both; and may you bring much honour to the ways of truth, by your lives and conversation, till, full of days, and full of grace, like shocks of corn in harvest, you be gathered into the heavenly garner! I long to be publishing glad tidings of salvation to poor Indians, and am daily studying their language for this purpose: an Asiatic on board helps me in acquiring the pronunciation, and in return, receives instruction in the New Testament: he evidences a teachable disposition; laments the folly and idolatry of his countrymen, and I trust will one day become a witness against their abominations.”

But to return to the Journal:--

“June 8th, 1806. On a review of this week, I feel much cause for humiliation, and much for praise; for humiliation, that I gather no more boldness in the cause of God and of his Son. Yet, I am thankful that my silent refusal to conform to the vanities around me is not unobserved; and that a sneer about saintship is not unfrequently indulged in, when I am present. I rejoice in these tokens of my separation from the temper and practices of the world; yet I would look to more certain evidence of my love to Jesus than this, even in the devotedness of my heart to His service and glory; and in the love I feel for perishing souls around me. Alas, my evidences are very few: yet I think I would rather be a door-keeper in the house of God where I might see His face, than live in the richest palace on earth; and to be instrumental in turning sinners ‘from the power of Satan unto God,’ is more desired by me than to be Emperor of the world. These are my sentiments and desires: O Lord, let them not evaporate in empty speculations for Jesus Christ’s sake!

“Thursday night. I would record to the honour of Divine grace, the goodness of God to my soul. Rose this morning at half-past five, found much earnestness in prayer, and my mind much disposed to that duty, but little if any sensible comfort. Prayed particularly for a believing, waiting spirit, which has been graciously vouchsafed. I have observed two or three instances of answers to prayer, in the waiting frame of my mind; in the attention I have been able to give to study, and in some other particulars. Lord, keep me humble and thankful for Jesus Christ’s sake, Amen!

“June 29th. I have neglected to make memoranda of my state. Abstained from dinner, with a view to afflict my soul before God, on account of my own sins, and the sins of those around me. O Lord, without thy divine influence I fast and pray in vain. The sins in myself I would particularly note are, a backwardness to think on divine subjects; a general deadness in religious duties; a coldness of affection towards the Lord Jesus Christ; a want of zeal for God, and of love for souls; and a fear of censure and reproach, which leads me to suffer sin on my neighbour unreproved. With respect to those around me, their profane swearing, their neglect of God and His worship. O will not God be avenged on such a people as this? Will not this floating city be sunk in the mighty waters, for the wickedness of its inhabitants? O Lord, let my cry come before Thee, in behalf of this ship’s company, through the mediation of Jesus Christ!

“Sunday, July 6th. This morning a most tremendous gale came on. Went on deck at five o’clock. The vessel rolling so as once to ship a sea on the lee-side; every person seemed apprehensive of danger. For my own part, I do not recollect to have been afraid, but I felt much awe and seriousness, in the thought of appearing before God. In the afternoon (two o’clock), a man fell overboard from the foremost main-yard. By the uncommon exertions of Mr. Walker, the third mate, and four of the men, he was taken up alive, and gives hopes of recovery. Mr. W.’s conduct on this occasion merits the greatest praise, and has much endeared him to every one on board.

“July 20th. Read Church History and Persian. The Commodore spoke an American, which left Calcutta on May 28, and which on June 22nd, spoke a ship at sea, and received information that a frigate, supposed to be detached by Jerome Buonaparte,[6] put into the Cape and was captured by Admiral Popham; from whence it is concluded that Jerome Buonaparte either followed the frigate into the Cape and was taken, or proceeded to India. Two country ships had been captured in the straits of Malacca.

“Thursday, July 24th. In addition to the news heard on Tuesday, learned from the Commodore, that the American told him a general peace had been brought about in India. O that ‘the Prince of Peace’ would establish His dominion among those perishing heathens! Every day brings me acquainted with some new proof of that wretched slavery which they are under to the powers of darkness. My mind is bent on the work of the ministry amongst them. I think with delight on the time when I shall be able to address them, in their own language, on the glorious truths of the gospel; and am thankful that I find diligence and ardour in the acquirement of Hindoostanee. Yet, when I reflect on the backwardness and timidity that possesses my mind in this matter, among my present associates, I am ready to fear lest I should be diverted from my purpose. Lord, hold me up, and bring me through, more than conqueror, for His sake who, I believe and feel, ‘loved _me_, and gave himself _for me_!’

“Thursday, August 21st. This morning heard that Ceylon was in sight; went on deck soon after, and saw land, but very indistinctly. At half-past one the shore presented a beautiful object; a great variety of trees, hills, and plains. My mind more affected than I can express, with a sense of the goodness of God, in bringing me thus far in health and safety. I feel no inconvenience from the climate, and very little of that listlessness I so much feared. O for a heart to praise the Lord! Surely, surely, I am more ungrateful than any of God’s children; for His child I feel I am! O write thy law on my heart; and let my obedient life bring glory to Thee, through Jesus Christ! O how I long to be declaring the way of salvation to perishing souls! O let me have that faith which overcomes the world; set me free from every entanglement; keep through thy word those on board whom thou hast disposed to consideration; fortify their minds, and keep them from the tempter’s power, to the glory of thy grace, Amen, Amen!

“Sunday, August 24th. Rose this morning at five o’clock. After prayer--in which I found earnestness, and tolerable fixedness of mind, though no stirring of affection--went on deck. Read in the epistle to the Hebrews, and found much light flash on my mind in reading. Saw more clearly than ever the _distinction_, yet _consistency_, between the old and new covenant. At eleven, read a sermon from Walker; afterwards joined in prayer with W, P, G, and V.[7] I found much enlargement of heart, and much freedom of expression in prayer. Lord, keep me humble; and, O bless these my associates! Convince them of sin; lead them to Jesus; make them strong in the Lord; and be a spirit of adoption in their hearts, for Jesus Christ’s sake! Lord, bless my dear relatives. O give them grace to walk before thee with perfect hearts; and supply them with every needful earthly blessing. Feed them ‘with food convenient’ for their station, and finally crown grace with glory. Amen! No prayers on deck, or in the cuddy.

“Monday. Yesterday afternoon, a strange sail came in sight to the northward. Cleared for action, and lay at quarters all night. Expect to reach Madras to-morrow morning by six o’clock. Every one seems unsettled in prospect of going ashore; my own mind has caught the contagion. Nothing to advantage has been done to-day. ‘Lord, save or I perish.’

“Wednesday. Were disappointed in our expectation, by a strong current which set us so far to the westward that we were obliged to tack, and wait for the sea-breeze, which to our great joy sprang up about three o’clock; and brought us into Madras roads, where we cast anchor exactly at ten at night. Yesterday morning the air was much impregnated with the flavour of the productions of Asia, having a smell like the sickly smell arising from sweetmeats. The entrance into the roads was very delightful: the light-house before us, the European residents’ houses on the left, showing lights from various quarters; the Nabob of Arcot’s palace lighted so as to appear brilliantly illuminated. All these were pleasing objects to eyes accustomed to look only upon the wide extended ocean for four months past. The striking of clocks, too, was most gratifying to the ear. My mind was much affected with a sense of the Divine goodness, in bringing us thus far in safety and peace. As soon as we were anchored, two boats came from Admiral Trowbridge for despatches; and a _Catamaran_,[8] with three natives charged with letters from the Town-major to the Commanding Officer. These natives presented a most disgusting appearance to a stranger, especially an European stranger. They have no covering, save a small piece of cotton round their waists; and a cap, like a fool’s cap, of fine basketwork, in which they carry their letters: and, being entire strangers to our language, my mind was affected with dismay and horror. Retiring to my cabin, despondency almost overcame me. My native country, with its healthy climate, and hospitable inhabitants, came forcibly to my mind. Those loved objects seemed for ever gone: dear relatives for ever fled! In exchange, a sickly climate, a burning soil, a heathen population, were to be my associates. Alas! how these considerations depress my spirits, while a sense of my own unfitness to encounter any of these obstacles, leads me to consider this as a place of banishment, and an untimely burial-ground! Yet have I not freely chosen this undertaking? And, has not God power to bring me through? And, is He not sovereign of Asia, as well as of Europe? And, is He not ready to save here, as there? O my foolish, unbelieving heart! I see the truth of these suggestions; yet unbelief prevents me from taking the comfort of them. O Lord, work faith in my heart; and enable me to glorify thee by a firm reliance on thy promise, that thou wilt not leave me, but wilt make me ‘more than conqueror through Him that loved me,’ even Jesus thy Son: to whom with Thee and the Holy Ghost be glory for ever!

“This morning several boats filled with natives came off: the rowers, like the Catamaran Jacks in appearance and dress: the masters or duboshes,[9] having white muslin coats and petticoats. These duboshes are very obsequious, very pressing of their services; and have written characters, as from former masters; but many of these are evidently forgeries. Many of our Bengal passengers are gone on shore. I felt too depressed to go; and too much interested in V. and Y. to leave them on board. Y. I hope, seems in some measure, established in sound principles and practice. V. alas, discovers a backwardness to converse on religious subjects; and I fear, shuns me, lest I should trouble him with them: he is, however, very regular in his conduct; and much respected by his associates. But, Oh! what avails a mere name to live?--He is now gone on shore. Y. remains on board, with the other Madras cadets, until an order for their disembarkation arrives. O Lord, keep them by thy power! O let not Satan triumph over them, for Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen.

“MADRAS, Wednesday evening, Aug. 27th, 1806. Went on shore, and was much annoyed by the clamorous importunity of the natives, who were waiting in hundreds on the beach to carry the luggage, or otherwise serve the new comers: their harsh language, and their almost naked bodies, their eager and obtrusive offers of service disgusted and wearied me exceedingly. With some difficulty, I got through the crowd; and, on arriving at the New Navy Tavern, found some of my old shipmates. Here we were again importuned by duboshes who were eager to serve us. We made choice of one who proved a notorious cheat: he made off with six rupees given him to hire a _bandy_;[10] and I know not yet how much linen he may have stolen. The profusion of silver or gold rings which the natives wear on their arms, their ancles, their ears, and their toes, appeared odd to me; their offers of service and their whole conduct, whilst I was on shore, have impressed my mind with an opinion of their deep depravity, and their entire want of principle....

“On Thursday, August 28th. Parson and I went to call on the London Society’s missionary. Though unknown to him, and though carrying no letter of introduction, yet I was certain that if he were a real missionary, we should be welcome; and I was not disappointed in this expectation. We received a cordial reception: Martyn having mentioned my name, we soon became cordial. He appears a humble pious man, not destitute of ability, with a degree of zeal: his education appears to have been confined. Here we learned that Dr. Ker, the Senior Chaplain, had a letter for me from Martyn; and that, being obliged to go to Seringapatam for the recovery of his health, he had left it at the house of Mr. Torriano. Thither Mr. L. drove me in his bandy, leaving Mr. Parson to walk back to the inn. On arriving at Mr. T.’s, I found the letter, enclosed in one from Dr. Ker, recommending me to accept Mr. T.’s invitation to take up our abode with him; which we did, and experienced much hospitality and kindness. Mr. T. is a self-taught Christian indeed: his son is a sensible and very pious youth, and showed us much brotherly love; and from the Lieutenant we received great regard. Next day Mr. P. and myself called on Mr. V. and found him very reserved: he afterwards, on further intercourse, became more sociable; and engaged me to preach for him on Sunday the 31st; which I did, and took for a subject the character of Josiah. The Governor, &c., were present; and the church was pretty full: the congregation was very attentive; though some, I hear scoffed; but others expressed their approbation. In the evening P. officiated at the chapel, Black Town, and expounded the first chapter of the Epistle to the Romans. I went to hear Mr. L. who preached from Psalm xxxvii. 40. During our stay on shore, I went often to the cadets’ tents, and have reason to be thankful. Found V. and Y. kept free from the vices of the place.

“Friday evening, Sept. 5th. I read a portion of the church prayers, and addressed an exhortation to the boys at the Asylum. There are about two hundred half-caste boys educated there, and maintained by public subscription. Dr. Ker is Superintendent; and Mr. L. is acting Master. During our stay at Mr. Torriano’s, our apartment was a tent comfortably fitted up, where Mr. T. generally (his son V. always), comes morning and evening to join in worship. The fort is a most complete structure, seemingly defying the power of man to take it: the buildings within it are very sumptuous. The Black Town far exceeds my expectation, in the commodiousness of its houses, and in their structure; but the streets are narrow; and the dust and filth in them render the town exceedingly unwholesome. I do not find the heat by any means so oppressive as I expected: morning and evening it is as cool as summer in England. I frequently walked several miles. The Europeans are, in general, very averse to the idea of evangelizing the natives. The chaplains consider it as a hopeless case; and others look upon it as needless and impolitic. I lament that my mind was not more affected with the stupid idolatry of these depraved people. Their pagodas abound; and their attention to them might shame people of purer principles; whilst their depraved morals show that their religion is confined wholly to externals; and that they are incapable of communion with a holy God. These considerations ought to impress me more. O the unconquerable hardness of this stupid heart! Yet, blessed be God, who has reconciled my mind more to the work of the ministry here; and has influenced me to prefer the honour which cometh of God, more than the favour of men. I think I am more determined than ever on publishing salvation to these ignorant heathen. I have to lament that my mind seldom experienced any sensible comfort in God, whilst on shore: deadness and oppression overspread my soul for the most part; yet, I do not recollect, except on one occasion, that I attempted to shun the reproach of the cross; and, in general I was enable to introduce serious subjects.

“Sunday, Sept. 7th. Came on board the Alexander, in consequence of the Asia being ordered round by Penang, to take troops to Bengal: much heaviness of mind on account of the state of those around me....

“Saturday, Sept. 13th. On Tuesday evening last, we came to anchor off Masulipatam. During that day, in making in to the shore, the ship was found in three and a half fathoms (she draws three fathoms;) consequently great alarm prevailed, every one expecting that she would strike instantly. The wind being brisk, the ship answered the helm; and, by the Divine favour, we got clear of the danger. In the afternoon, a ship which had been in sight for some days, hauled her wind and stood our course: this raised a suspicion of her being an enemy; the drum beat to quarters and every preparation was made to prevent her boarding us. After some time, she hoisted Danish colours, and came to anchor near us off Masulipatam. During these two times of alarm, I recollect to have been much more anxious as to the event, than on former times of danger during the voyage; and have reason to fear I have suffered damage, especially since we left Madras. This I know has been the case, and I bless God who has given me to feel it, and to lament it, and to strive and pray against it; and (blessed be His name) not in vain.

“On Wednesday, Parson and myself went off together with two officers of the king’s regiment: after a most unpleasant passage of twenty-four hours, we arrived at Masulipatam, a distance of not more than six miles in a straight line. Our delay was owing to the land wind, which, blowing directly opposite, drove us far to leeward, and obliged the men to push the boat along shore with long poles; a tedious and laborious operation. On entering the fort, we found that Colonel Norris (to whom we had a letter of introduction from his father-in law, Mr. Torriano,) was in the fort. We went to his house, and on being introduced to his lady, presented our letter, which she opened, and sent to the Colonel, who was on a committee at the barracks. Breakfast was got for us immediately, and every attention shown us; after breakfast, the Colonel came in, and ordered us change of clothes; after we had dressed, he came and shook us very kindly by the hand, and said, he had an order in his pocket, which obliged him to be particularly kind to us. This order he punctually obeyed, shewing us every mark of attention possible, and even regard.... The propriety of conduct necessary in ministers, the characters of many eminently pious missionaries, and of Christ and His Apostles, were the principal subjects of conversation. May God give a blessing to our poor attempts to spread the savour of Jesus’ name; and may the Colonel’s kindnesses to us be abundantly repaid out of the fulness of Christ! After passing twenty-four hours very agreeably, and I trust not unprofitably, we left Masulipatam yesterday about three o’clock, with the purser; and though detained a short time at the entrance of the river, from want of water, we got on board the Alexander by five o’clock: the anchor was weighed, and we set sail as soon as possible.

“Tuesday. Yesterday I was very unwell in consequence of drinking too much water: the day passed in a restless, unprofitable manner to myself. In the evening, I was enabled to speak to the surgeon on the utility of prayer; which I did because of some sarcastic remarks made, as to the uselessness of the Bible and Prayer-book in time of action; we being suspicious that there was an enemy’s ship in view. He was silenced, and afterwards showed me more than usual attention. We were looking out all the afternoon of yesterday for a pilot; and came to anchor at ten in the evening in Saugor roads, amidst a fleet of Indiamen homeward-bound--two ships of war, with many country ships--a most gratifying sight; though, I confess, I felt little pleasure. The remembrance of dear relatives filled me with deep regret, whilst the prospect of being instrumental in furthering the Lord’s work in India filled me with joy; and I felt I could forsake all for Christ’s sake.

“Thursday. We came to anchor in Diamond harbour. The sailing up the river was delightful; the green herbage and foliage most refreshing to the eye; and the numerous population raised wonder how provision could be found for so many persons. The whole shore, as far as the eye could reach, appeared one continued village on each side. The sight of a burying-ground for Europeans at Diamond harbour, with several monuments erected therein, tended to lessen my joy; as did the death of Captain ---- of the 77th, for whom the colours were hoisted half-mast high, and who was buried in the sea the evening we lay at anchor, in Saugor roads. Captain C----, Ensign W., Parson, and myself, left the Alexander in a budgerow,[11] about nine o’clock, and sailed from Diamond harbour about half past ten in the evening.

“Friday, Sept. 19th. I went on shore in the morning at Fulta, and sending some provisions on board to my chums, remained till flood-tide, which was not till two o’clock. My mind was much gratified with the scene; the green fields appearing here and there between the groves, were very much like scenes I remembered in England; many birds were singing much like the nightingale; herds of cattle, of the buffalo breed, with herdsmen tending them here and there on the bank. A dead body floating on the river created much horror in my mind; and the bird called the adjutant excited much surprise. At Fulta I found a very elegant inn, and accommodations very reasonable. Having placed a chair at the gate-way on the elevated situation on the bank of the river, the opposite bank appeared covered with villages, and the surface of the river with boats. I took out my bible, and read the 60th chapter of Isaiah. The precious promises of the enlargement of Christ’s Church came with much power to my mind; the last verse was very encouraging, and raised much joy, from the hope that I might be honoured to be one of ‘the little ones’ who should ‘become a thousand, and a strong nation.’ The prospect of all these swarms of people bowing to the sceptre and dominion of Jesus, filled my soul with exultation. I found much freedom in prayer, and spent some time in joy and rejoicing. The budgerow being much longer in coming up than was expected, occasioned great anxiety; and, to my shame be it spoken, impatience. O how fickle is my mind: but Jesus liveth, and He changeth not! Blessed be God for Jesus Christ! I came on board about two o’clock this afternoon; and we are now at anchor about ten miles below Calcutta.

“Sept. 21st, 1806. Yesterday morning, being tired of waiting any longer for a fair wind, I left the budgerow about five o’clock, and came up in the tow-boat to Calcutta. The scene on each side of the river was much the same as during the preceding day; but being indisposed from want of food, and by exposure to the sun, I felt but little lively joy. Read in the Bible, and Newton’s Hymns; and found much desire to be grateful for preservation during the voyage, for meeting with kind friends, and for the abundant supply of every temporal want; above all, that notwithstanding my manifold failings, some sense of my obligations to God in Christ still remains. The sight of Calcutta afforded me great satisfaction: the approach to it was tedious; and I felt some impatience at the perversity of the boatmen. Alas, the depravity of my nature is but little subdued! I walked up to the church, and inquired in vain for Martyn: went to Doughty’s hotel, where I met V. at the door, who, I feared, was oppressed in spirit and suffering from the effects of climate. I took some refreshment, and was about to go forth in quest of Martyn, when a note arrived from him, desiring me to go to him in the college.[12] I set off immediately, and was received by him with the most lively demonstrations of joy. Here I was desired to take up my abode; and here I am fixed for the present. Mr. Brown,[13] to whom I am indebted for my present entertainment, appears a sensible, determined, pious man; very different from the descriptions I heard of him during the voyage.”

On the same day, in which these particulars are noticed in his journal, Mr. C. sent a letter to his sister; written, as it appears, at intervals during his voyage, and communicating information up to the period of his arrival at Calcutta. The letter itself is not less remarkable for its plain good sense, than as manifesting that strong natural affection and love of country, which entered so largely into the character of the writer:

“From the date of this letter, (Sep. 21st.) you will perceive how much longer our voyage has proved than at the beginning of it we hoped it would. Twenty weeks are completed since we left Portsmouth: the usual time a voyage of the kind occupies is about fifteen weeks. The chief part of our delay was between St. Iago, and the Cape of Good Hope. Before we arrived at St. Iago, we had fair and strong winds; and since we got round the Cape, the weather has proved most agreeable. A thousand anxious thoughts daily fill my mind on your account: separation from you has only tended to show how much my comfort depended on you: scarcely for two successive waking hours has your image been out of my remembrance. I am very anxious that you should come out to me; and I am very anxious respecting your voyage. You have little, humanly speaking, to fear from dangers of the sea. Your greatest inconvenience will arise from not having a person with whom you can communicate freely: to be under a restraint of this kind, for five months, is a greater evil than you can at present suppose. You will, no doubt, hear of some lady coming out, with whom you can take half of a cabin; and if such an opportunity offers, you need not hesitate to embrace it. But you will need to use great caution how you trust strangers; and by no means be too familiar with any of the passengers, till you have had time to observe their dispositions: the evil of a contrary conduct has appeared very strikingly with us; and still more so in some other of the ships of our fleet. It is very easy to assume an appearance of gaiety and good-humour, when people only meet occasionally, and for a short time; but when they come to live together, and are obliged to meet each other at every turn, without Divine grace, few tempers are found sufficiently accommodating to maintain that forbearance, and to make those concessions, which are absolutely necessary to peace and comfort. Hence, when by an unguarded confidence, persons of contrary dispositions and habits have committed themselves to each other, they soon become mutually disgusted; family circumstances are exposed; weaknesses ridiculed; and contempt and hatred follows. You see I write under the idea that you will not leave England till you hear of my arrival in India. I have only to add, that my health is much improved since I left you.

“Since I began this letter, a variety of events have taken place, and crowd so fast on my mind, that I know not where or how to relate them. On entering Madras roads in the evening, the lights reflected from the houses built on the shore, with the sound of the sentinels’ voices passing the word, and the striking of the clocks, formed altogether the most remarkable impression I recollect in life. After having for five months been separated from the civilized world in a great measure, and having seen only the boundless ocean, and occasionally hailing some of our consorts, you may suppose the entrance into society was highly gratifying. My joy was silent, and chiefly expressed in ejaculations of praise to Him who had so graciously preserved us through the great deep; nor were wanting prayers for my native land, and for the many dear objects left behind. This pleasant temper of mind was, however, of short continuance, as soon as we came to anchor, some of the natives came off in catamarans; they were almost naked, and very savage in appearance. The consideration of being, in all probability, to spend the remainder of my life among such wretched beings, filled me with melancholy; and rendered me sleepless during the greater part of the night; and the whole of the next day, I was very unhappy. But you will perceive my sin and unbelief in this matter; as their wretchedness should rather have excited compassion and anxiety for bettering their condition: the idea of no further comfort remaining for me, certainly arose from the absence of the proper influence of that precious truth, ‘If He give peace, who then can cause trouble?’ I perceive this clearly now; and I am thankful that I am able to take the comfort of it to myself. During the whole of our stay, the anniversary festival of one of their idols was celebrating at a pagoda or temple, in sight of the house where we were. Their chief solemnities were celebrated during the night; and consisted in most wretchedly bad music, something like bad bag-pipes, accompanied with a tom-tom, or small drum unbraced, and incapable of music; with these, at intervals, loud shouts were set up by the people, and something of a song in praise of their idol sung in alternate strains, which were responded by the people to each other in a sing-song tone of voice. O what a blessing is the Gospel to mankind! Well might the angels sing at Messiah’s birth, ‘goodwill towards men,’ no less than ‘glory to God!’ How lovely does Christianity appear, contrasted with the absurdities of these pitiable heathen! O, how privileged is Britain, where Divine truth shines forth in all its purity! May my happy native land know the value of her privileges, and improve them: O that, to latest ages, her rulers may continue nursing fathers, and nursing mothers to the Church; and use their widely-extended influence in rendering their colonies happy as themselves!”

[6] In 1806, Napoleon placed his brother, Jerome Buonaparte, in command of a squadron of eight ships of the line, which were ostensibly destined for the West Indies.

[7] Cadets.

[8] A species of raft used by the natives of Madras.

[9] A kind of general Agent.

[10] A kind of gig.

[11] A native travelling boat.

[12] The College of Fort William.

[13] The late Rev. David Brown, at that time Chaplain at the Presidency, and Provost of the College of Fort William.