•2,
MEMOIRS
OF THE
RIGHT REV. DANIEL CORRIE, LL.D.
Woodman.
Fleet Street JanT 1847.
MEMOIRS
OF THE
RIGHT REV. DANIEL CORRIE, LLD.
il
FIRST BISHOP OF HABEAS.
COMPILED CHIEFLY FROM HIS OWN LETTERS AND JOURNALS,
BY HIS BROTHERS.
SEELEY, BURNSIDE, AND SEELEY,
FLEET STREET, LONDON
MDCCCXLVII.
At
MORSE STEPHENS
LEONARD SHELBY, PRINTER, THAMES DITTON.
PREFACE.
As the greater portion of these Memoirs of a loved and honoured brother, have heen derived from his own papers, it is hoped that the risk of representing him other than he really was has, in a great mea- sure, been avoided. In making use, however, of such materials as were in the possession of the Edi- tors, they judged it to be desirable to give somewhat copious details of their brother's earlier ministerial labours, because they conceived that it was then that the principles and motives by which through- out life he desired to be actuated were most se- verely tested. The Editors were of opinion, too, that whilst many of the particulars connected with their brother's earlier labours in Northern India, would be new to the great proportion of the present generation, these records of " the day of small things " could not be without interest and use to all who may be engaged in the work of Missions.
To account for the delay attending the appear- ance of this Volume, it may be proper to state, that, independently of the time consumed in the trans-
511660
VI PREFACE.
mission of some papers from India, many unfore- seen circumstances prevented the brother who had undertaken the task, from preparing any portion of these Memoirs for the press until August, 1845. At that time it pleased God to visit him with a serious illness, which ultimately brought him to the grave ; and thus the responsibility of complete- ing what an abler hand had commenced, devolv- ed on the only surviving brother, who, in his turn, has not been altogether free from those interrup- tions which arise out of the duties and afflictions of ordinary life.
It remains to acknowledge, with thanks, the obligation of the Editors to the Lord Bishop of Oxford, for the Letters which the subject of these Memoirs addressed to the Rev. D. Brown, the Rev. H. Martyn, and the Rev. J. Sargent ; to the Lord Bishop of Calcutta, for the account of the Visitation of the Upper Provinces, which appears in pp. 529 and seq ; to the widow of the late Rev. J. Buckworth, for letters addressed to her husband ; and to the Archdeacon Harper for letters and information con- nected with the Diocese of Madras. It will be seen also, that the Editors of these Memoirs have been much indebted to the correspondence of their brother with Mr. Sherer, of the Bengal Civil Service, — him- self recently numbered with the dead who are waiting for the resurrection to eternal life.
January 28, 1847.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
HIS EARLY LIFE — AND MINISTRATIONS. . . page \
CHAPTER II.
DEPARTURE FOR INDIA VOYAGE ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA . page 23
CHAPTER III.
AT ALDEEN APPOINTED TO CHUNAR. . . page 47
CHAPTER IV.
SETTLEMENT AT CHUNAR. .... page 66
Vlll CONTENTS.
CHAPTER V.
RESIDENCE AT CHUNAR. .... page 88
CHAPTER VI.
VISIT TO CALCUTTA ARRIVAL OF HIS SISTER. . page 118
CHAPTER VII.
REMOVES FROM CHUNAR — ARRIVES AT CAWNPORE — ILLNESS OF
MRS. MARTYN. ..... page 140
CHAPTER VIII.
RESIDENCE AT CAWNPORE. .... page 178
CHAPTER IX.
CAWNPORE COEL — RETURN TO CALCUTTA. . . page 201
CHAPTER X.
CALCUTTA. ..... page 227
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XL
IX
page 245
CHAPTER XII.
VOYAGE TO ENGLAND. ..... page 280
CHAPTER XIII.
RETURN TO CALCUTTA.
page 295
CHAPTER XIV.
REMOVAL TO CALCUTTA.
page 320
CHAPTER XV.
CAWNPORE — CALCUTTA — RETURN OF MR. THOMASON — DEATH OF BISHOP HEBER. .....
CHAPTER XVI.
ARRIVAL OF BISHOP JAMES — CONSECRATION OF THE BISHOP'S COLLEGE — DEATH OF BISHOP JAMES — VISIT TO THE UPPER
PROVINCES. . . . . . . page 415
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XVII.
GOVERNMENT RETRENCHMENTS — PLAN FOR A COLLEGE — DEATH OF MR. THOMASON ABOLITION OF SUTTEE — ARRIVAL OF BISHOP
TURNER. . . . . . page 440
CHAPTER XVIII.
DISQUIETUDE CONCERNING THE ANGLO-HINDOO COLLEGE — DEATH
OF BISHOP TURNER. .... page 481
CHAPTER XIX.
ARRIVAL OF BISHOP WILSON — BAPTISM OF NATIVES — ORDINATIONS VISITATION OF THE UPPER PROVINCES. . page 519
CHAPTER XX.
DELAY IN HIS NOMINATION TO THE BISHOPRIC — NARROW ESCAPE FROM DEATH — SUMMONED TO ENGLAND — VISITS THE CAPE AND
ST. HELENA HIS CONSECRATION INTERVIEW WITH THE KING
ARRIVAL IN MADRAS — VISIT TO TANJORE AND TINNE-
VELLY. ...... page 563
CHAPTER XXL
CHURCH-BUILDING FUND — SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR THE IRISH CLERGY — THE MADRAS GRAMMAR SCHOOL — MEMORIAL TO GOVERNMENT
PRIMARY VISITATION DEATH OF MRS. CORRIE ORDINATION
DEATH OF BISHOP CORRTE. . . page 603
MEMOIRS,
ETC.
MEMOIRS,
ETC. ETC.
CHAPTER I.
HIS EARLY LIFE AND MINISTRATIONS.
DANIEL CORRIE, the subject of this Memoir, was born on the 10th of April 1777, and was the eldest surviving son of the late Rev. John Corrie, for many years Curate of Colsterworth, in the county of Lincoln, and Vicar of Osbournby in the same county, and afterwards Rector of Morcott, in the county of Rutland. The history of the early part of Mr. Corrie's life will be best told by the following extract from his private Journal, dated on his twenty-seventh birthday : —
" Alas, when I look back, what a dreary waste appears ! Seventeen years spent at home without a thought of God or salvation, though I had the benefit of family worship, and abundance of good advice. The succeeding four years I spent
B
'2 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
with Mr. E,* principally in London, and its neighbourhood, exposed to every temptation. The first serious resolution I made of reformation was on the night of February 10, 1798, on which I heard of my mother's death, which, occurring suddenly, was a great shock to me. I loved her most dearly, and had much reason to do so. Being totally ignorant, however, of my own depravity, and in darkness as it regarded the work of the Redeemer, I soon broke all my resolutions. In May 1798, I returned to my father : and, being removed from my temptations, I was in hope of effectually reforming myself; but, alas ! on every convenient occasion, I became the prey of my former temptations. In the October of that year, we removed from Colsterworth to Grantham, where I became still more strict, attending every month at the Lord's Table ; but I was still ignorant of the way of salvation. In the summer of 1799, 1 was entered of Clare Hall, Cambridge ; and before going into residence, I met frequently with Mr. G. N., who took much pains to direct my views aright ; but I obstinately withstood him, and succeeded too fatally, I fear, in hardening C. against his admonitions. Still, I was desti- tute of true peace, and determined on greater strictness, such as fasting and penance, &c. &c. I went into residence at Cambridge, October 1799; but instead of further reforma- tion, I spent my first year in a round of dissipation. Still, however, I maintained appearances, being seldom out of gates after ten o'clock, or being absent from chapel. I went occasionally to Trinity Church, f though I was much dis- gusted with what I heard there. During the summer of 1800, I had time for reflection, and returned to college in the autumn, with some faint desires of doing better. At Christmas of that year, I was appointed to an exhibition at Trinity Hall, and removed thither in the January of 1801.
* A friend who had expressed an intention of providing in life for Mr. C.
t The church of which the late Rev. Charles Simeon was then Incumbent.
HIS EARLY LIFE. O
I now began to feel a growing attachment to Mr. Simeon's ministry, although I seldom ventured to take a seat. Re- turning home in June 1801, reformed in a great degree in my outward conduct, and with desires the world could not satisfy, it was my happiness to find John Buckworth,* at his father's ; who, taking me to visit some religious people, I insensibly began to love their society, and to perceive that it was the way of life I desired to follow. I reflect with much gratitude on the kindness and forbearance of my friend Buckworth, who led me on by degrees, till I ventured to speak to him of my state ; and from that time I have ex- perienced a pleasure in the ways of God before unknown. Yet, alas ! I began to be proud ; and returned to college in October 1801 full of self-conceit. I now attended Trinity Church regularly ; but my walk was very uneven. About Christmas I fell grievously, and continued for about a fort- night full of terror, and without resolution to proceed. It pleased the Lord, however, to raise me up again ; and since that period I have had no distressing apprehensions respect- ing God's willingness, and the Saviour's sufficiency, to save to the uttermost/'
With reference to what Mr. Corrie terms in the foregoing extract, a grievous fall, he expressed himself to his friend Buckworth, in a letter dated Dec. 25, 1801, as follows: —
" I was too forward and presumptuous in my notions of acceptance with God, and of an interest in the Saviour ; and God has thus left me to myself, to prove to me the pride and deceit of my heart. I have been ashamed of my Saviour, and he has withdrawn from me the sense of His presence ; and dismay and a fearful looking for of judgment has taken
* The late Rev. John Buckworth, Vicar of Dewsbury, whose father was an inhabitant of Colsterworth .
B 2
MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
possession'of my soul. Yet the anxiety and longing after His presence, which I feel, leads me to hope that He will not cast me off for ever. God, Thou knowest my heart : Thou knowest that I trust not in my own self for strength to serve Thee. O shut not Thy merciful ears to my prayers ! "
After keeping the usual number of Terms in Cambridge, Mr. Corrie was ordained Deacon on Trinity Sunday, June 13, 1802, by Dr. Tomline, Bishop of Lincoln, to the curacy of Buckminster, in the county of Leicester. His views and feelings with respect to the Christian ministry, are expressed in the following extract from a letter written about the time of ordination to Mr. Buckworth : —
" The ministry appears to be indeed an awful undertaking : the nearer the time approaches, the more difficult do the duties of it appear. At C. the obstacles seem to be greater than elsewhere. 0 for a firm reliance on that grace that can overcome all obstacles, and make even a bed of thorns easy ! "
Shortly after Mr. Corrie had been ordained to the curacy of Buckminster, he received an appointment to that of Stoke Eochford also. On this latter curacy he resided, until in 1806 he accepted a chaplaincy to the East India Company ; and his correspondence with Mr. Buckworth, affords us some notices of his early ministerial life. In a letter dated November 10, 1802, he writes,
" I yesterday met a large party from Skillington at N.'s. You know I never was among them before. I felt little edification : their manner of expression, and many passages
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. O
in their hymns, were not in unison with my frame. I felt not that ' Nature's last agony was o'er ; ' or that ' all was torn from my bleeding heart ; ' but thought that ' would to God this were my experience ! ' 0 that I might love Him supremely— that I might burn with love in return for His matchless goodness ! But, what I most objected to was a hymn, beginning, f Abraham when severely tried/ and in the third line, ' He with the harsh command complied/ I may not be correct in any except the marked words ; but surely nothing can be ' severe, ' or f harsh, ' which proceeds from a God of love, who is engaged to make all things work together for our good. Send me word, dear B. what you think of these things : whether these remarks are not the offspring of a captious and weak head ; or whether it is an artifice of Satan to prevent me from profiting by their company ; for, certain it is, I feel little of that elevation I have often felt after religious conversation. I spent the evening of Sunday at Mrs. B/s, I trust profitably. Some of their relations were there, and went away seemingly impressed. May God fix what was said on their hearts ! I spoke to them from my favourite subject, 2 Cor. viii. 9. The subject of our poverty, and the way in which we were made rich in Christ, were the principal topics I dwelt on. 0 that He would be pleased to own the labours of the very least of his servants, who am not worthy to be called a servant ! Blessed be He who has ' laid help on one that is mighty ; ' and blessed be He who knows how to pity our infirmities, and will send his Spirit to teach us what to ask for. How my praise for ever flows, to the adorable Trinity for that grand scheme of redemption ! While I write, I feel the efficacy of Christ's atoning blood to purify souls polluted as mine. 0 when shall redemption in its fullest import appear ! When shall we begin the triumphant song of the redeemed, ' To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood ! ' "
MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
" March 7, 1803.
" My time, sorry am I to say, has passed heavily of late. Such backwardness to communion with God, such sloth- fulness in His service : so many painful apprehensions with regard to temporal inconveniences : so many distressing doubts with regard to retaining Stoke ! You, perhaps, will not wonder when I tell you that, what with inward conflict and outward service, I am brought very low; or that these unbelieving fears have provoked the Holy Spirit of God to leave me, in some measure, to wrestle with those inward and hidden corruptions of my heart, which, like a troubled sea, throw up mire and dirt in abundance. Yet by this, if by nothing else, do I know that the Lord favours me, since my enemies, who have assaulted me so continually, have not prevailed against me. And though my soul is cast down ; yet do I not doubt but that, when the Lord sees fit, I shall praise Him, and again rejoice in the God of my salvation.
" You desire to know how I go on, that is, I suppose, how the work of the Lord prospers. 0 that I had more to tell you on this head ! At Sewstern, I have reason to fear that my hopes were too sanguine. Miss N. was last week attacked very suddenly with a fainting fit. It happened to be the day I was to drink tea with them. I found them much alarmed ; and, it gave me an opportunity of speaking on the necessity of a speedy application to Christ. . . . May the Spirit of God apply it to their hearts ! At Easton, I was called to visit a woman who has been long confined, though till lately unknown to me. I trust that the Lord has indeed visited her in mercy. I found her at first in a very contented state, supposing, (in her own words), that she had ' a good repenting heart.' I endeavoured to con- vince her that by nature no one has a repenting heart, but on the contrary that it is only evil, yea ' desperately wicked/ On my return a few days after, I found her in much anxiety,
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 7
saying that she had been deceived in her opinion of herself, &c. ; and though her doubts are not yet removed, I trust she disclaimed all other ground of confidence but the Re- deemer's merits. This is matter of much comfort to me ; and 0 what comfort that I have myself been taught these things ! Might I not have been ' a blind leader of the blind.' Might I not still have been the slave of Satan, and been his instrument in destroying souls ? ' 0 to grace how great a debtor ! ' '
" April 25, 1803.
(e Soon after my last letter to you, peace began to dawn upon my soul ; and by imperceptible advances gradually to increase. I have since then enjoyed in general a settled calm ; though of late I have been severely exercised by the revival of corruptions which I had hoped were in a great measure subdued. The Lord has let me plainly see that the seeds of these evils still remain. At the same time I have reason to bless His name, who has made me more than conqueror. Mr. Newton's letter on Temptation suits my experience on that subject ; and it has been the instrument of much comfort and strength to me.
" You perhaps have learned from the newspapers the sudden death of Mr. Cholmeley.* He was riding with some friends near his own house, and fell from his horse in a fit, and expired in a few minutes, without speaking a word : he was buried last Saturday. How loudly do such provi- dences call upon us to be in continual readiness ; not only to awake from sin, but to be diligent in the improvement of our talent, that when our Lord cometh, He may receive His own with usury."
* Montague Cholmeley, Esq. of Easton Hall, near Grantham, one of Mr. Corrie's parishioners, and grandfather of the present Sir Montague J. Cholmeley, Bart.
8 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
" Colsterworth, June 8, 1803.
kl Your letter directed to High Street, followed me hither. I should have answered it sooner, but have been much en- gaged in catechising, attending visitations, &c., besides my usual avocations. With yourself, I have to complain of much deadness of soul; though I enjoy now and then a passing glimpse of the Divine goodness, for which I have much reason to be thankful, and which keeps my soul athirst for God, and leads me to long for brighter manifesta- tions of His love. I cannot but adore the condescension of Jehovah,who, I trust, smiles upon my labours, and owns His own work in the most worthless of His creatures."
" Stoke, October 31, 1803.
" What obligations am I under to you for the part you have taken, in leading my feet into the ways of peace ! But, what infinitely greater obligations do I owe to the Friend of Sinners ! That name, the ' Friend of Sinners/ endears the adorable Saviour to my soul ; and gladly would I leave all things here below to see Him as he is, and love Him as I ought. But His time is best : and it is infinite condescension that He grants us here some visits of His love, and gives us to taste a blessedness begun. When I read your letter, I was almost ready to envy you the pleasure you must have enjoyed during your stay in London ; but a little reflection reconciled me to my confined situation. Though you were feasted with spiritual dainties, yet unless your spiritual appetite was good you would pine in the midst of plenty ; and, blessed be His name, where He creates an appetite, He will surely satisfy it, were it in a desert. ' If Elijah wants food, ravens shall feed him/ . . . I have in general enjoyed much comfort in private, but my public duties have not brought me so much consolation.
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS.
So much of self mixes with all I do, that it mars my peace j and, I fear, hinders the success of my labours ; though it seems the highest presumption to limit the Almighty, or to suppose that a ' potsherd of the earth ' should obstruct His designs. The Sunday preceding the Fast- day, I en- deavoured to prepare the minds of the people for that oc- casion; and was happy to find that it was not without effect. The three churches were crowded. I took my text from Psalm lix. 1, 2. I have read lately two of the Homilies, ' the Homily on the Misery of Man/ and ' the Homily on Salvation/ By the advice of my father, I reserve the others for the festivals for which they are appointed. I hope this may have the effect of removing prejudice — the Lord grant it may ! I can appeal to Him that my desires are to be use- ful in His vineyard. May that sovereign grace be magnified which has inspired the desire ! Yesterday my father ad- ministered the Sacrament for me at Buckminster ; the num- ber of communicants was unusually large, though it is a time of the year in which the people do not usually attend in numbers. I hope this is a token for good, and an en- couragement to persevere and wait the Lord's time
" My dear friend, forget me not at the throne of grace : thither I always bear you in my mind, and I have much need of your prayers, that I may have utterance given me to declare the mysteries of the Gospel. This is all that is worth living for, to make known the riches of Divine grace, and to be instrumental in winning souls to Christ. Yet, O what coldness and backwardness I feel even in this delight- * ful service ! . . . .
" Did you, my friend, partial as you are, but know the thoughts that haunt my soul, and pursue me even into the pulpit, your good opinion would, I fear, be turned into disgust. But ' this is a saying worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners/ This is all my salvation, and all my desire ; and this shall be all my theme, ' Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.
10 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
From this hold, Satan has not prevailed to drive me of late. To this hold will I cling, for He that is my righteousness is also my strength, and in His strength I shall be more than conqueror. May the soul of my friend ' blossom as the rose ; and be as the garden of the Lord, well watered every where and fruitful ! ' "
" London, December 20, 1803.
" I rejoice that you seem to expect no further hinderance to your ordination at Easter. I hope you will be abundantly blessed in your labours, for truly nothing else can satisfy a soul thirsting after the honour that comes of God. We need much patience, dear B., that after having done the will of God we may inherit the promises —
' God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform,'
and, when our finite capacities can discover no good working, He is bringing about the purposes of His own will. Often has he given my impatient soul to see this : in a moment hushed the storm of raging and impetuous passions; and made, even when all in prospect seemed gloomy, a great calm. This experience has been of great service to me, in enabling me to impart consolation to others, and to comfort them with the same comfort wherewith I myself have been comforted of God. 0 the heights and depths, and lengths and breadths, of the love and con- descension of God, to submit, as it were, to the caprices of the creatures of His hand, yea, of the rebels against His government ! { Is this the manner of men, 0 Lord ? ' I feel, indeed, according to your expression, that ' without all- sufficient grace, quickly would my heart return to the indul- gence of those things which my judgment tells me, are nothing but vanity and sin/ In the review of my experience since I came hither, much cause of praise appears. That
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 11
promise has been very abundantly realized, ' He will not suffer you to be tempted above what ye are able, but will with the temptation make a way to escape/ And having this experience I would gladly ' cast all my care upon Him/ who, I trust, ' careth for me,' in expectation that He will ' keep me by His mighty power through faith unto salvation.'"
" Stoke, February 14, 1804.
" I anticipate much pleasure in your company and from hearing you preach in some of my churches. I have, how- ever, I trust, learned in some poor measure to ( cease from man ; ' nor do I expect either pleasure or comfort further than as a Divine blessing shall attend our communications. The work of the ministry seems to be followed with little effect in this place : for my own part, however, I have felt much freedom from slavish fear; and have delivered my message with boldness. If it were the will of God, I should rejoice in some visible effects ; but I desire to resign myself to His pleasure.
" The Methodists have at length established preaching at Sewstern ; and, I understand, some have been brought under convictions by their means. If the work be of God, I would gladly bid it God speed ; and if it be of man, it will come to nothing. The ministers of the Established Church labour under some disadvantages, from the necessity of
having so many parishes to attend to, &c Every day
convinces me more of the necessity of subordination in religious, as well as civil affairs. The want of this is the cause of that mania, if I may so speak, which prevails among the Methodists, and bids fair in time to turn them all into preachers and no hearers. They seem to look upon preaching as the only instrument of conversion, and over- look other means, such as reflection, self-examination, &c. ; hence their various backslidings, falling from grace, &c., with
12 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
the many reproaches that are brought upon the gospel thereby. These things make me lament sincerely, the defection which, I fear, daily takes place from the Establishment. Pure in her doctrines, and apostolic in her constitution, our Church seems, indeed, ' the pillar and ground of truth ; ' and the best means, under the great Head, of keeping men in the simplicity of the gospel. I would not, however, say with Mr. D. that there is no salvation out of her pale. I would rather pray, earnestly pray, for a revival of vital godliness in her sons 0 that it would ' please God to illumi- nate all Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, with true know- ledge and understanding of His word ; ' and enable them to shew its real power both in their preaching and living. . . "
" April 4, 1804.
"I should have answered your letter sooner, but have been both very unwell and very much engaged. Mrs. B. left this life for a better, in the night of the 26th ultimo. I was in the house at the time of her departure, and I trust profited by the awful event. She was sensible at the last, though for some days she had been wandering. Frequently during her illness, she confessed that she had no hope but in the blood and righteousness of Christ, and wished to re- ceive Him as her King to make her holy, as well as her Prophet to teach her, and her Priest to atone for her trans- gressions. It was matter of surprise to me to hear her ex- press herself with a correctness on the work of the Redeemer, which had been unusual to her ; and did not seem to be expected from one who had become so late in life acquainted with the way of salvation. I have felt more than I had expected to feel from the departure of one of my most con- stant and attentive hearers. May the effect be lasting !
" I have of late had reason to bless God for some visible testimony of His acceptance of my labours. Soon after you left us, I went to visit an old person and his wife at Sews-
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 13
tern, and trust that the man is in a hopeful way. Some persons at Easton, too, have been awakened, and now meet for the purpose of social worship. The multitude, alas ! continue inattentive: but, one soul saved, and that the meanest or weakest of God's creation, is abundant recom- pense for a life of toil and labour.
" Last Sunday, I exchanged duty with Mr. G. at W. It is grievous to observe so small an attendance at public wor- ship. It seems a beacon to warn us of the ill consequences of irregularity. When a man shews a contempt for the in- stitutions of the church to which he belongs, the profanum vulguSj though dull enough in general, can easily see the motive that keeps him in the church, and they learn to de- spise the person who, for the sake of emolument, will con- tinue a member of the church/'
To the foregoing notices of Mr. Corrie's early ministerial labours, may be added an extract from his Journal, dated April 10, 1804.
"On Trinity Sunday, June 13, 1802, I was ordained Deacon. I trust I had a desire to do good to the souls of men ; but it was, as I now perceive, very faint, though I hope my labours have not been in vain. And now, 0 Lord, I desire to adore that sovereign grace, which plucked me as a brand from the mouth of the devouring flame ! I would pour out my soul in gratitude, to that dear Redeemer, whose intercession has delivered me from so great a death ; and would bless the Holy and Eternal Spirit who has enlightened my dark understanding, so that though I know not the hour, nor the day, nor the month, nor even the year, when He graciously wrought savingly upon me, yet I can say, ' Whereas I was blind, now I see/ 0 Holy, Blessed, and glorious Trinity, let thy choicest blessings descend on Mr. Simeon, who, regardless of the frowns he might incur, faith- fully warned me of my danger ; and let thy watchful Provi-
14 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
dence ever protect my friend Buckworth, dearer than a brother ; and, 0, pardon my manifold sins ! This is all my hope, that the blood of Jesus Christ eleanseth from all sin, and that His Spirit is powerful to subdue the most inveterate corruptions.
1 On thee alone my hope relies, At thy dear cross I fall, My Lord, my Life, my Righteousness, My Saviour, and my all.'
Impart to me from thy fulness, and let me evermore be abound- ing in thy work. I trust thou hast given me to desire the furtherance of thy glory. Enable me to act accordingly, and to live to Him who loved me and gave himself for me. Let nothing ever prevail to allure me from Thee, neither the hope of preferment, nor the fear of opposition. I have a deceitful and desperately wicked heart, but I trust thou wilt never leave me nor forsake me, seeing thou hast given me to hope in thy word/'
During the Easter Term 1804, Mr. Corrie returned to Cambridge for the purpose of keeping his Law Exercises;* and on Sunday, June 10th, of that year, was ordained Priest at Buckden, an event which he thus notices: —
" This day I have been admitted to the sacred Order of Priests. I have much, 0 Lord, to be grateful to Thee for ! I was kept calm and collected during the examination ; and, (glory be to Thy name ! ) I have been given to feel, in some measure, my insufficiency for these things. Make me, I beseech thee, more sensible of this, and grant that the solemn transactions of this day may never rise up in judgment against me ! Let me be a light in the world,
* It was now that Mr. Corrie became more intimately acquainted with Henry Martyn than he had before been.
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 15
showing forth thy praise ; and make me, both in life and doctrine, an example to Thy flock. Lord, excite in my heart strong desires after the welfare of immortal souls ; and grant that those to whom, I trust, thou hast sent me, may be ' turned from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God.' To thee I look : on thee I would depend. Blessed Jesus ! be thou my righteousness and my strength. Fulfil all the good pleasure of thy will in me."
In answer to a letter received from Mr. Buck- worth, who, the Easter previously3 had been ordained to the curacy of Dewsbury, he writes, August 24th, 1804: —
"I rejoice to hear of the success of your ministerial efforts. 0 that the Lord would hasten the time when Satan's kingdom shall be finally demolished, and the king- dom of the Messiah established on its ruins ! You will now have another snare to contend with ; the Lord having been pleased to own you for his servant, Satan will now seek to exalt you beyond measure. We tread in a narrow path : dangers stand thick around : a single false step may lead to consequences most ruinous. 0 what need of watchfulness ! May the ' Watchman of Israel ' guard you ; then will you be secure indeed ! For myself, I can but just discern the pulse of spiritual life to beat, and that chiefly by the strug- gle between sin and grace. Alas ! I have no active exer- tions to reflect on. That I am not the willing captive of natural inclination is all that I can say. Since you were here, I have been obliged to apply for medical aid, and have found considerable relief (thanks be to the chief Physician !) so that I am now in usual health, except that I am op- pressed with a languor which distresses me exceedingly, and leaves me only able to sigh and cry. How cheering the consideration that ' our life is hid with Christ in God ! ' There it is secure. How animating the thought that ' when
16 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
Christ who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear with him in glory ! ' 0 the wonders of redeeming love, that worms, rebellious worms, may not only hope, but confidently expect such transcendent blessedness ! For Christ our Head having endured the cross, to deny Him the rewards of His sufferings would be an injustice incapable of entering the Eternal mind. What shall I render [to the Lord] that amidst all my deadness, this hope is not taken from me ? My help it standeth only with the Lord ; and though I am destitute of sensible comfort, yet I am ena- bled to rest upon the unchangeable word of promise, that those whom He has justified, and to whom He has given the love of holiness, the inseparable companion of justifi- cation, He will infallibly glorify. With respect to the work of the Lord, I hope it prospers among us. I hear of good being done, and that is some comfort to me. Amongst your numerous friends, let me beg of you to remember me at the throne of grace : none more stands in need of your earnest supplications. Whilst I can keep hold of the pro- mise, I am encouraged : but I assure you, it is indeed a warfare, a struggle, a race. You are often, often present to my mind ; and while I have any apprehension of the in- estimable value of spiritual blessings, I will not cease to pray that you may be enriched with the choicest of them ; and that we may be permitted to join in the songs of the redeemed."
" Stoke, November 12, 1804.
" It is some time since I heard of you, but hope you are well : if so, the less matter whether I hear of you or not. However, pray snatch some passing hour to let us know how the work of the Lord goes on at D. ; for, let matters go how they may with ourselves, still will we say respecting the success of the Gospel, ( Good luck have thou ! ' There is in man a desire to be something, somewhere ; and this
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 17
desire is, beyond a doubt, the moving spring of much of that forwardness we see in many touching the promotion of religion. Howbeit, the Gospel is furthered.
<f You will be surprised to hear of the death of James P. He was buried at Colsterworth about a fortnight since. With my father's permission, I preached at his funeral to a crowded church. The effect I know not, but my own heart seemed hard and insensible as a rock ; and, indeed, though I have proof that my labours are owned by my gracious Lord, yet I seem like Gideon's fleece, dry in the midst of divine dew. My hope, however, and my confidence, is kept immoveably fixed on the rock of ages ; and I have to bless God for a growing devotedness to his service, an increasing determination to be the world's fool for the sake of Christ, and to count His reproach my highest honour."
An entry in his private Journal, dated January 27th, 1805, manifests the same distrust of self, and the same earnestness for the good of his people.
" At Skillington, this morning, I felt an earnest desire, had it been God's will, that I were able to preach extempore. I had so strong a desire to communicate to the people what I felt of God's goodness, that it seemed a restraint to con- fine myself to my paper. But, Lord, thou knowest what a proud creature I am. Thou seest how I covet the praise of man, and in mercy to my soul hast made me 'slow of speech/ 0 make me of quick understanding in the ways of godliness ! At Stoke, I felt something of the same spirit remaining, some longings after God in prayer, and some breathings for his blessing on the people during the sermon ; but at Buckminster, how changed ! Wandering thoughts and imaginations. How manifold are the mercies, how infinite the patience of God ! O when will it be that my heart shall be immoveably fixed on God : when shall my soul become as a weaned child ? Blessed Saviour ! thou art my Friend, my Advocate, my Head of influence : visit me
c
18 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
with thy salvation : smile upon my poor, imperfect, defiled labours, and glorify thy name in my weakness ! "
April 10th, being his 28th birth-day, is thus no- ticed :
" Yesterday, I was twenty-eigKt years of age : but, my heart ever prone to forget the Lord's mercies, I forgot to make any reflections on the Divine goodness in bringing me thus far. Lord, I would remember, to the glory of thy rich and free grace, that thou forgivest my transgressions, and coverest all mine iniquities. I have to praise thee that thou hidest me from the strife of tongues : thou makest my way very pleasant : thou strewest my path with flowers : thou hast also given me some tokens that I have not run unsent, by blessing my poor attempts to the consciences of my peo- ple, and awakening some of them, I trust, from the sleep of sin, making them to hear thy sweet voice speaking peace to their souls. If a worm may be permitted to plead with his Maker, 0 let my cry enter into thy ears, and awaken many sinners amongst us to come to Christ that they perish not ! Yea, Lord, give me to see Jerusalem in prosperity : nor would I cease to plead with thee till thou hast answered my prayer. I would praise thy holy name for a growing de- termination to glory in nothing save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. I would bless thee for a disposition to count reproach for his sake as my highest glory. I plainly perceive that ' all who will live godly must suffer persecu- tion.' I cannot hope to enter into heaven but f through much tribulation/ even as thy choicest servants have done. 0 enable me to keep my eye ever fixed on Jesus, that I may not be weary, or faint in my mind ! When I look back, the brightness of thy favour makes my unprofitableness dark in- deed ; and I should have just cause to fear, that the aveng- ing sword of thy justice would cut me down as a cumberer of the ground ; but Jesus liveth, making intercession, and therefore I am not consumed. Nor shall I ever be con-
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 19
sumed, seeing, { He is able to save to the uttermost/ To all thy other favours, O Lord, add a heart to trust thy word ; and henceforth let the love of Christ constrain me to a more constant and uniform obedience. Thou knowest that I love thy law ; and though I come far short of its requirements, yet there is not one jot or tittle that I desire to have altered. I consent to it that it is f holy, just, and good/ and desire to conform my whole spirit, soul and body, to its divine precepts. Let thy Holy Spirit, then, carry on the work thou hast begun ! Write thy law upon my heart ; put it into my mind ; and let me be changed from glory to glory, till I become ' meet for the inheritance of the saints in light : ' whither, in thine own good time and way, bring me of thine infinite mercy, for Christ's sake. Amen/
In the Easter term of 1805, Mr. Corrie was ad- mitted to his L.L.B. degree. It was during this visit to Cambridge that the subject of a chaplaincy to the East India Company was strongly urged upon him by the late Mr. Simeon. After much and serious consideration, it seemed to Mr. C. to be his duty to devote himself to the spread of the Gospel amongst the heathen. An appointment to India was according- ly obtained for him, through tbe influence of the late Mr. William Hoare ; and the following extracts from Mr. C.'s journal and letters will exhibit the state of his mind, in the prospect of quitting his curacy, for the purpose of exercising his ministry in a distant land.
"July 25th, 1805. I have for a long time neglected to note down the workings of my soul ; but I would now re- mark, that when I have been in my best frames, my mind has been most resigned to the work of the Lord in India.
C 2
20 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
Yet I feel much cleaving to creatures, and a want of resigna- tion. Lord, teach me to know, and do thy will !
" Oct. 6th. As the time approaches for leaving England, more anxiety of mind arises ; though blessed be God, no desire to draw back from the work. 0 may I be found but faithful ! Lord, strengthen and support me in the work. ( Give what thou commandest, — and then command what thou wilt : ' let thy will be done in me, and by me ; and in life and death let me be thine, through Jesus Christ, thy dear Son, and my beloved Saviour. Amen ! "
TO THE REV. J. BUCKWORTH.
" November 12, 1805.
" From my last you would, perhaps, expect to hear from me before this; which might have been the case, but that I received information, when in London, that the fleet does not sail for India before January next. It is not likely, therefore, that I shall leave this place [Stoke] before that time; unless, indeed, Mr. D. should meet with a curate to supply my place. He is now in London ; and, as my en- gagement with him ceases at Martinmas, should he meet with any person at liberty to enter on the curacy, I cannot expect, nor do I desire, to continue longer. He returns this week, when it will be determined. On my way from London, I stopped at Cambridge, and read prayers for Mr. Simeon on the Thursday evening. It was highly gratifying to see very many gownsmen attentive hearers of God's word. One might compare it to so many messengers waiting for instructions, with which they were about to post off in all directions. The Lord increase their number, and long con- tinue Mr. Simeon at Cambridge, an invaluable blessing to the church and nation ! — I feel some degree of regret at leaving [this place] ; and, especially on account of some who manifest an attachment to the cause [of God] , whilst yet they are far from being what I could wish them. I ex-
HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 21
perience something of what the Apostle expressed towards his people, when he declared he f travailed in birth of them till Christ were formed in them.' 0 that the Lord would ' cut short his work in righteousness/ that I might leave them with a prospect of rendering an account of them with joy ! I reflect with much dissatisfaction on my conduct whilst among them : so little of the example of Christ, so little of warmth in public, so little of zeal in private, so much ignorance, and inexperience in stating the truths of God, that I fear lest their blood should be required at my hands : almost involuntarily my soul cries out, e Deliver me from blood-guiltiness, 0 Lord, and my mouth shall sing aloud of thy righteousness ! ' 0 the horrid wickedness of soul-murder ! How infinitely valuable must that blood be, that can wash out so foul a stain ! 0 may I ever experience its healing and cleansing power ; and may the consideration of the richness and the fulness of redeeming love animate me to greater exertions, and fill my mouth with more ex- alted praises ! Lord Jesus, let thy power rest upon me, and thy strength be perfected in my weakness ! Out of the mouth of a babe and suckling in Divine knowledge, ordain praise and glory to Thyself ! Let my dear friend say, ' Amen/ to these unconnected petitions ; whilst, through grace, my prayers shall continue to ascend, that every need- ful gift and grace may be bestowed upon you, that you may be enriched with all spiritual knowledge and understanding ; and that you may have utterance given f to declare the whole counsel of God.' "
" January 13th, 1806.
" I have not heard further respecting the time of sailing for India, but am getting ready for a removal on the shortest notice. With much thankfulness I inform you, that my mind is quite tranquil in the prospect of leaving everything dear to human nature. I have, indeed, some-
22 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
times, painful convictions of my insufficiency for the great work before me ; but am in general enabled to believe, that e as my day is, so shall my strength be/ The affection my people express for me fills me with shame, that I do not more deserve it, and with fear lest I should be tempted to think of myself more highly than I ought to think. It has pleased my gracious Lord, however, to give me of late a deep experience of my own depravity, and of my unwor- thiness of the least of his mercies. My dear friends seem entirely reconciled to a separation. I trust that we shall be able to part without the sorrow of those ' who have no hope/ 0 how great the condescension of our Redeemer God, who stoops to so close an union with sinful worms : who allows the sons and daughters of corruption to address Him as their Husband and their head ; and salutes them as His spouse and His beloved ! Methinks such honour, so undeserved, might well engage our every thought, and make our every inquiry only, ' What shall I render, &c ? '
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."
Afterva prosperous journey to London and Ports- mouth, 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 be-
24 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
came 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, 0 what reason have I to adore the divine mercy. Soon after I had deter- mined 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. 0 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
VOYAGE TO INDIA. 25
Saturday, I could not sleep for the tossing of the ship : I lay meditating on death, and found my mind calm and re- signed ; 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, 0 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 ex- pectation, 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
26 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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 Leo- pard's boats saved about twenty-five. The ladies were re- ceived 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 un- fortunate 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 Com- modore, having sent several boats to their assistance, sug- gests 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 ! 0 let me not
VOYAGE TO INDIA. 27
be as those who know not God, but grant me such a due sense of all thy mercies, 0 Lord, that my heart may be un- feignedly 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. lago.— 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 ; alto- gether, 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 in- ferior 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 Bri- tain, and admiring the kindness of providence to that happy
28 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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/ 0 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. 0 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 !
0 for a due sense of all thy mercies, my God and Saviour ! "Friday, May llth. 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.
1 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 exer- tions, lest Jesus Christ should profess himself ashamed of me at the last day. 0 the piercing thought of being ex- cluded 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
VOYAGE TO INDIA. 29
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 corre- spondent thereto than formerly. This morning, he spoke with much feeling, on several experimental truths of Chris- tianity ; and I humbly hope, is no stranger to the power of them. 0 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 memo- randa 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 in- timate 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 instru- mental 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 0 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
30 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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 ex- cluded 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 with- out 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
VOYAGE TO INDIA. 31
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 hu- miliation, 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 un- observed ; and that a sneer about saintship is not unfre- quently 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 f 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 specula- tions 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,
32 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORR1E.
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. 0 Lord, without thy divine influence I fast and pray in vain. The sins in myself I would par- ticularly note are, a backwardness to think on divine sub- jects ; 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. 0 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 ? 0 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
VOYAGE TO INDIA. 33
Commodore spoke an American, which left Calcutta on May 28, and which on June 22nd, spoke a ship at sea, and re- ceived information that a frigate, supposed to be detached by Jerome Buonaparte,* put into the Cape and was cap- tured 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 Ame- rican told him a general peace had been broitght about in India. 0 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 con- queror, 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 pre- sented 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,
* 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.
D
34 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
and very little of that listlessness I so much feared. 0 for a heart to praise the Lord ! Surely, surely, I am more un- grateful than any of God's children ; for His child I feel I am ! 0 write thy law on my heart ; and let my obedient life bring glory to Thee, through Jesus Christ ! 0 how I long to be declaring the way of salvation to perishing souls ! 0 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 ; after- wards joined in prayer with W, P, G, and V.* I found much enlargement of heart, and much freedom of expres- sion in prayer. Lord, keep me humble ; and, 0 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. 0 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 pros- pect of going ashore ; my own mind has caught the conta-
* Cadets.
OFF MADRAS. 35
gion. 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 en- trance into the roads was very delightful : the light-house before us, the European residents' houses on the left, show- ing 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,* with three natives charged with letters from the Town-major to the Command- ing Officer. These natives presented a most disgusting ap- pearance 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 basket- work, in which they carry their letters : and, being entire strangers to our language, my mind was affected with dis- may 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 hea- then population, were to be my associates. Alas ! how these
* A species of raft used by the natives of Madras. D 2
36 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
considerations depress my spirits, while a sense of ray 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 under- taking ? 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 ? 0 my foolish, unbelieving heart ! I see the truth of these suggestions ; yet unbelief prevents me from taking the comfort of them. 0 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,* 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. 0 Lord, keep them by thy power ! 0 let not Satan triumph over them, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.
* A kind of general Agent.
MADRAS. 37
"MADRAS, Wednesday evening, Aug. 27th, 1806. Went on shore, and was much annoyed by the clamorous impor- tunity 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 im- portuned 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 ;* 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 Sering- apatam 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
* A kind of gig.
MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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 Lieu- tenant 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 ex- pounded 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 ex- pectation, 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 ex- pected : morning and evening it is as cool as summer in England. I frequently walked several miles. The Euro-
MASULIPATAM. 39
peans 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. 0 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 in- fluenced me to prefer the honour which cometh of God, more than the favour of men. I think I am more de- termined than ever on publishing salvation to these ignorant heathen. I have to lament that my mind seldom ex- perienced 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
40 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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 un- pleasant passage of twenty -four hours, we arrived at Masu- lipatam, a distance of not more than six miles in a straight line. Our delay was owing to the land wind, which, blow- ing 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 in- troduction 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,
MASULIPATAM. 41
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 en- abled 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 after- noon 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 bury ing- 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,* about nine o'clock, * A native travelling boat.
42 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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 si- tuation 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 mufch 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 exul- tation. 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
ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA. 43
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.* 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, f to whom I am indebted for my present entertainment, ap- pears 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
* The College of Fort William.
t The late Rev. David Brown, at that time Chaplain at the Presidency, and Provost of the College of Fort William.
44 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
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. lago, and the Cape of Good Hope. Before we arrived at St. lago, 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 em- brace 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 dis- positions : 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 occa- sionally, 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 ac-
CALCUTTA. 45
comtnodating to maintaiD 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 dis- gusted ; family circumstances are exposed ; weaknesses ridi- culed ; 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 sup- pose 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 re- mainder 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 un- belief in this matter; as their wretchedness should ' rather have excited compassion and anxiety for bettering their con- dition : the idea of no further comfort remaining for me,
46 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
certainly arose from the absence of the proper influence of that precious truth, f If He give peace, who then can cause trou- ble ? ' 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 celebra- ted 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 j with these, at intervals, loud shouts were set up by the peo- ple, 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. 0 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, con- trasted with the absurdities of these pitiable heathen ! 0, 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 : 0 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 \"
CHAPTER III.
AT ALDEEN APPOINTED TO CHUNAK.
ON Mr. Corrie's arrival in Bengal both he and Mr. Parson took up their abode with Mr. Brown at Aldeen, a short distance from Calcutta, and remained under the same hospitable roof until they proceeded to the stations that had been assigned to them re- spectively by the government. Henry Martyn was their fellow-guest for a time, and with that honoured servant of God Mr. Corrie's intimacy was close and brotherly. Mr. C. was also in the habit of preach- ing regularly during his residence with Mr. Brown, and of maintaining constant intercourse with the whole body of Christian Missionaries in Calcutta and Serampore. In his Journal, too, occur many intima- tions of the anxious affection with which he regarded such of the Cadets as remained within reach of his visits, or were willing to correspond with him. A peculiar regard for the welfare of young persons
48 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
was, in fact, a distinguishing feature of Mr. Corrie's character.
Early in December 1806, Mr. Corrie and Mr. Parson left Aldeen, the one having been appointed at Chunar, the other at Berhampore. As respects Mr. C. it will be seen, that during the whole of his journey to the place of his destination, the subject of the conversion of the heathen occupied a large portion of his thoughts.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF CALCUTTA.
" Calcutta strikes me as the most magnificient city in the world ; and I am made most happy by the hope of being instrumental to the eternal good of many. A great oppo- sition, I find, is raised against Martyn, and the principles he preaches ; this gives me no uneasiness — by the help of God, I will stand fast in the doctrine of Christ crucified, and maintain it against all opposition. But, Lord, grant me the wisdom that is from above, that I may act with discretion, and in nothing give unnecessary offence !
" At three o'clock,* Martyn preached from Rom. iii. 21 — 23, the most impressive and best composition I ever heard. The disposition of love and good will which appeared in him must have had great effect ; and the calmness and firmness with which he spoke raised in me great wonder. May God grant a blessing to the word. 0 may it silence opposition, and promote religion for Jesus Christ's sake, Amen.
" Tuesday, Sept. 30th. I have neglected for some time to make a memorandum of occurrences ; but remember, that in general, my mind has been without any lively sense of divine things ; though my heart has been going out much
* On Sunday, Sept. 21.
CALCUTTA. 49
after God. The joy expressed by the few serious people here is very great ; and were not those comforts withheld which I have been some time favoured with, their kindness would have a tendency to make me proud : for, Oh ! I feel an evil heart cleaving to the world, though not under its former shape. I am not without a secret uneasiness, that I have not talents to render me equally acceptable with others. This is not to be content with God's appointments ; though, I think, I would not have others brought to my standard, but would rise to their5 s, that God may be more glorified. I have received great kindness from Mr. Brown, and much benefit from his conversation. Blessed be God, I feel no disposition to shrink from the shame of the cross, but hope, with boldness, to declare myself a fellow-labourer with Martyn, in the controversy excited by his preaching.
" I preached on Sunday [Sept. 28,] evening, at the Mission Church, from 2 Thess. i. 7 — 10 : my mind was somewhat impressed with the importance of my office, both before and during the service. I trust the furtherance of God's glory, and the good of souls, was, and is, my prevail- ing desire. Went up to Serampore yesterday, and in the evening was present at the marriage of Mr. Desgranges.* Mr. Brown entered into their concerns with much interest. The pagodaf was fixed on, and lighted up for the celebration of the wedding ; at eight o'clock the parties came from the Mission house, [at Serampore] attended by most of the family. Mr. Brown commenced with the hymn, ' Come, gracious Spirit, heavenly dove ! ' A divine influence seemed to attend us, and most delightful were my sensations. The circumstance of so many being engaged in spreading the
* One of the London Society's Missionaries.
t The Hindoo temple of the idol Bullub, which the Brahmins had deserted. Mr. Brown had repaired, and fitted it up as a family chapel and study. The pagoda was, also, sometimes appropriated to the accommodation of Mr. Brown's particular friends. — MEMO- RIAL SKETCHES OF REV. D. BROWN, p. 137.
E
50 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
glad tidings of salvation, — the temple of an idol converted to the purpose of Christian worship, and the Divine presence felt among us, — filled me with joy unspeakable. After the marriage service of the Church of England, Mr. Brown gave out ' the Wedding hymn ; ' and after signing certificates of the marriage, we adjourned to the house, where Mr. Brown had provided supper. Two hymns given out by Mr. Marsh- man* were felt very powerfully. He is a most lively, san- guine missionary; his conversation made my heart burn within me, and I find desires of spreading the Gospel grow- ing stronger daily, and my zeal in the cause more ardent. But 0 ' my leanness * in comparison of these ' burning and shining lights ' around me. Yet, in the strength of Jehovah will I go forward, and will tread in their steps, and pursue them at a distance, though I may not hope to come near their attainments.
" Oct. 10th. I have for some time past been oppressed with a sense of the want of spiritual affections : my heart as cold as ice, no mouth to speak of, or for God : deadness in prayer, and languor in every spiritual duty. I perceive my great insufficiency for the work of the ministry ; and lament exceedingly my small opportunities of education, f and my sinful negligence in not better improving those I had. ' God be merciful to me a sinner/ and perfect praise to Himself out of my weak and unskilful mouth ! Last night I went to the Mission-house, [at Serampore] and sup- ped at the same table with about fifty native converts. The triumph of the cross was most evident in breaking down their prejudices, and uniting them with those who formerly were an abomination in their eyes. After supper, they sang a Bengalee hymn, many of them with tears of joy ; and they concluded with prayer in Bengalee, with evident ear- nestness and emotion. My own feelings were too big for
* Baptist Missionary.
t During the four years that Mr. Corrie resided in the neigh- bourhood of London, little or no attention was paid to his education.
ALDEEN. 51
utterance. 0 may the time be hastened when every tongue shall confess Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father !
"On Friday evening, [Oct. 10th.] we had a meeting in the pagoda, at which almost all the missionaries, some of their wives, and Captain W. attended : with a view to commend Martyn to the favour and protection of God in his work. The Divine presence was with us. I felt more than it would have been proper to express. Mr. Brown commenced with a hymn and prayer, Mr. Desgranges succeeded him, with much devotion and sweetness of expression : Mr. Marshman followed, and dwelt particularly on the promising appear- ance of things ; and, with much humility, pleaded God's pro- mises for the enlargement of Zion ; with many petitions for Mr. Brown and his family. The service was concluded by Mr. Carey,* who was earnest in prayer for Mr. Brown : the petition that ' having laboured for many years without en- couragement or support, in the evening it might be light/ seemed much to affect his own mind, and greatly impressed us all. Afterwards we supped together at Mr. Brown's. The influence of this association remained on my mind, and shed a divine peace and composure through my soul.
" Sunday 12th. This day I preached at the New Church from Gal. vi. 14. The Governor General, &c., attended. I felt a good deal of palpitation before I ascended the pulpit, but afterwards experienced great composure of mind; and had no idea that any one would be offended, being conscious that I was speaking the truth. I found much earnestness in prayer before, and after, divine service. God grant an increase to His own word for Jesus Christ's sake !
" Oct. 13th . I came to Serampore to dinner. Had a pleasant sail up the river : the time passed agreeably in con- versation. In the evening a fire was kindled on the opposite bank ; and we soon perceived that it was a funeral pile, on which the wife was burning with the dead body of her hus- band. It was too dark to distinguish the miserable victim
* Baptist Missionary. E 2
52 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
of superstition; but by the light of the flames we could discover a great crowd of people: their horrid noise, and senseless music, joined with the testimony of some of the servants, convinced us that our apprehensions were founded on fact. The noise continued till ten o'clock, and the fire was kept burning till that time. My mind was struck with horror and pity. On going out to walk with Martyn to the pagoda, the noise so unnatural, and so little calculated to excite joy, raised in my mind an awful sense of the presence and influence of evil spirits. 0 that the Lord would com- mand his word to run and be glorified, in casting them out, and placing in their stead the mild influence of his Gospel ! " Oct. 18th, 1806. On Wednesday last, Mr. Brown, Parson and myself proceeded up the river with Martyn, to set him on his way to Dinapore. We landed at 'Ghyretee, and walked through a most delightful avenue ; afterwards through a neat village (for this country), and arrived at Chandernagore about seven o'clock : we took tea at a tavern, and went on board our budgerow, about nine o'clock. After joining in prayer, we retired to rest. On Thursday morning, we proceeded to Chinsurah, on foot, through groves of fruit- trees ; we arrived at Chinsurah soon after seven o'clock, and received a most hospitable reception from Mr. Forsyth : * after dinner, we went with Mr. F. above Bandell ; and after worship, returned to Chinsurah in a paunchway .f Yester- day morning, the weather having commenced rainy, we determined to return to Aldeen, on account of Mr. Brown's boat becoming uninhabitable. We first engaged, according to arrangement, in alternate prayer. Mr. Brown commenced with reading a portion of Scripture, singing a hymn, and prayer, which order was observed by P., myself, and Martyn. A sense of the Divine presence was experienced by each of us, and our consolation in Christ Jesus abounded ; so that we left our friend without regret, and he parted with us
* One of the London Society's Missionaries, t A small covered boat.
ALDEEN. 53
cheerfully ; each persuaded that God was with us, and would be our ' shield and exceeding great reward/
" Oct. 22nd. On coming down the river, I saw the figures of Doorga * paraded on the river, and the indecencies of idol- worship. My mind was inexpressibly grieved ; and most earnestly did I desire to be able to address the poor deluded heathen.
" Nov. 3rd. For some time past I have made no memo- randa of the state of my mind. Alas, my wretched back- wardness to any really good thing ! In general my heart has been hard and insensible, though my desire has been to the contrary ; and I have had but little inclination to pray, though no disposition to give up prayer; and sometimes have experienced enlargement of heart, and melting of soul in prayer. I have preached several times at the Old Church, and once at the New. My purposes of labouring among the heathen are, I bless God, more fixed ; and a desire to be at my station, and about my proper work, grows upon me.
" When I hear of a spirit of covetousness which has affected many, I fear and tremble ; and I think something of that disposition was working within me this morning. Oh ! how often have I said that I desire not to leave one shil- ling behind me at death. I would record my own declara- tion, beseeching thee, 0 Lord, that I may be enabled to trust thee for future supplies, and to live by faith upon thee for daily bread !
" 24th> For some days past my mind has enjoyed quiet and peace with God ; my indisposition has been in a great measure removed, and I can speak and act as usual. t Praise God from whom all blessings flow.' My mind has been calm and resigned to the will of God, in the prospect of my des- tination, and in my preparation to set out for Chunar ; but little, alas ! of lively affection, with much wandering of heart in prayer. The youths who came out with me have been much on my mind. My dear relatives have not had so par-
* One of the principal Hindoo female deities.
54 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
ticular an interest in my prayers as at some other times ; but their welfare is exceedingly dear to me, and the prospect of having my sister with me very cheering.
" Nov. 29th. This morning Mr. Brown, Parson, Mr. Thompson* (of Madras), and myself, met in the pagoda at Aldeen, to consult in what way we may most effectually promote the glory of our redeeming God in the earth. After prayer by Mr. Brown, and after some conversation, we agreed, 1st. To join in the views, and aid to the utmost of our power, the purposes of the British and Foreign Bible Society : 2ndly. To help forward the translation of the Scriptures into the languages of the East, as much as in us lies; and to take the expense of the Sanscrit and Greek Testaments upon ourselves : and 3rdly. To make a quarterly report of our prospects, our plans, and actual situation in our various stations, as far as the Church is concerned, to Mr. Brown ; who will add his own, and cause a copy of the whole to be transmitted to each individual. After prayer we separated.
" Dec. 8. To-day set off for Chunar. In the strength of the Lord God I go forth. 0, prepare a people for Thyself, and make me the instrument of gathering them into thy fold ! Keep me by thy mighty power in body and soul ; and enlarge my heart that I may delight in Thy will, and lay out all my time and labour in Thy service ! Amen, Lord Jesus. Amen ! "
"Dec. 13th. On Monday last Parson and myself left Aldeen, to proceed to our stations ; Mr. Brown and Mr. Thompson accompanying us. We arrived at Chinsurah about three o'clock, after a quick sail up the river, the tide being in our favour : we called on Mr. Forsyth, with whom we spent the evening. Mr. F. conducted family worship, and was excellent in the application, and very fervent for the fulfilment of many precious promises. The presence of God was with us. Mr. F. gave me favourable intelligence
* The Rev. Marmaduke Thompson, late Chaplain at Madras.
CHINSURAH. 55
respecting General M. at Chunar, to which place Mr. L. had sent tracts, which had been noticed with approbation by the General. I hope the Lord has prepared my way. Yester- day morning, after breakfast and family worship, we set forward, Mr. Forsyth accompanying us. In the evening we walked on the bank, whilst the boatmen hauled our boat along. The encouragement and comfort his conversation raised in my mind will, I hope, never be forgotten : much lively and spiritual conversation passed, chiefly on the means most suitable for us to employ under present circumstances. We concluded by commissioning Messrs. Brown and T. to buy Bibles, Testaments, and Common Prayer-books, to be sent to us from time to time for distribution. Our friends left us to return to Calcutta. A sweet composure fills my heart : and, without regret, I leave all that earth and sense hold dear, to do thy will, 0 my God ! Let me find strength according to my day ; and call Thou me to any thing in which I may most glorify Thee. Leave me not for a moment; for though now, ( by thy goodness, thou hast made my mountain strong/ yet if thou hide thy face I shall be < troubled ! '
" Dec. 14th. Yesterday morning we left Sook Saugur : in the afternoon our attention was arrested by loud lamenta- tions : we observed a dying man put into the river to expire ; this, in the opinion of the Hindoos, insuring Paradise. We were much shocked at the spectacle. Lord, how long, how long shall Satan triumph ? Four out of six are killed in this way, and hurried out of life."
On the 16th of December, Mr. Corrie writes to his father : —
" I am now on my way to my station at Chunar, five days' journey from Calcutta, and three from Berhampore. To this last place Parson is appointed, and we are together in the same boat ; after which I have eight weeks' journey alone. I have, however, several introductions to Christian
56 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
friends on the way, and Martyn's station is before me, where I intend to stay a few days with him. My mind is at per- fect ease, and my soul happy in the love of God, and over- flowing with gratitude to the Giver of all good. Much and unexpected kindness has been shewn me in this strange land ; and I have found that whosoever forsaketh aught for Christ shall reap an hundred-fold ' in the present life : ' how, then, can I doubt the fulfilment of that part of the promise which relates to the life to come ? In the house of Mr. Brown, every attention that affection could think of has been shewn me. . . . The country through which we have come, is, in general, very pleasant, though flat. We walk on the bank morning and evening ; and amuse ourselves with finding out resemblances, or fancied resemblances to scenes we remember in Britain. We have every comfort we can wish for ; and our morning and evening worship, consisting of singing, prayer, and reading the Scriptures, tends to revive our souls ; whilst we walk as friends, and take sweet counsel together on the ends and means we purpose in our ministry. I have written so often that I forget what I may have said to you ; but you who know how much I am the creature of impulse in every thing — except my expressions of affection for you all, and in matters of fact, — will not judge of the state of my mind from one single letter. I allude especially to what I have written respecting the conversion of the heathen. You know, what / now know, how sanguine I am in schemes that my soul enters into ; and oft have I made calculations and statements which have afterwards made me blush. — The state of society among our own countrymen here is much altered for the better within these few years. The Marquis Wellesley openly patronized religion ; whether from motives of state policy or not, it is not ours to judge. He on every possible opportunity, made moral character a sine qua non to his patronage, and sought for men of character from every quarter to fill offices of trust. He avowedly encouraged, and contributed to, the translation of
PLASSEY. 57
the Scriptures into the native languages ; and wherever he went, paid a strict regard to divine worship on the Sunday. Before his time, all causes were tried in the courts of justice, through the medium of interpreters; but by the College which he instituted, he furnished the natives with judges capable of determining from their own knowledge of the language, and judgment on the evidence ; and has thus laid the foundation of peace and justice, such as Asia before knew not. He has been the saviour of India to Britain. The state of the natives in a moral point of view is deplora- ble; the most shocking indecencies form a part of their worship; and lying, cheating, &c., are not considered crimes. Two youths who were seriously impressed during the voyage, and one who was our fellow-passenger, and has since been brought to consideration, are going on consistently in the ways of wisdom. These first-fruits of our Indian en- gagement afford me the most lively encouragement, and the strongest hope that God is with me of a truth. O may He be a spirit of power in my own heart, and a word of power in my mouth, that many may be turned unto righteousness : then I am sure that you will bless the day that took me from you, and we shall rejoice together in the loving-kind- ness of our God \"
But to return to the Journal :
" December 18th. This evening we are at Plassy. Walking on the bank of the river, we passed an old man brought down to die by the river-side : he exhibited signs of considerable vitality ; and certainly no symptoms of im- mediate dissolution. My spirit was stirred within me ; and a Brahmin coming past, I began to talk to him on the wicked- ness of killing men in this way. He said his shasters* commanded it, and that the doctor had pronounced the man dying. I told him that God did no injury to man ; that He was good; and, therefore, the shasters were not
* Holy books.
58 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
God's word ; and that God was displeased at such proceed- ings ; he understood me, and pleaded their customs. I answered, that the custom, the shasters, and the people, were all bad ; and that when he died he would go down and lie in fire for ever. He evidently understood me and seemed confounded. I then told him that at Cutwa, a Sahib lived, who would give him the true word of God, and recommended him to go there. It appeared, however, that he came from Moorshedebad, and showed no disposition to return to Cutwa. Passing on, we found a party going to Juggernauth. I asked one of them, Why he went there ? What use it would be to him, and what good it would do to him ? He seemed confounded, and made no reply. I told him also of the anger of God, and of the fire after death. A Birajee* came running after us to beg ; he was an old man. On being told by him what he was, I said to him, that he was a lazy man that would do no work, but only eat, and that God was angry with him, and that when he died he would go down to fire for ever. He was surprised at this reception, and could only plead his age. I recom- mended him to Cutwa. This is my first effort at missionary work : but 0, how I blush, and abhor myself, for the imper- fect manner I speak for God. I know enough of the language to have conveyed different ideas, and more of them, but I am nothing, and know nothing. Lord, grant me wisdom and utterance ; and, 0, smile on my feeble attempts for the furtherance of thine own glory, through Christ Jesus !
" Dec. 21st. We are now by the kind providence of God at Berhampore. On Friday Mr. Grant and Mr. Ellerton stopped our boat, about one o'clock, and we stayed at that place all night. We met, also, with Messrs. B. and their friends ; one a youth from England, by the Nelson. They also stayed with us ; and in the evening, we were joined by two officers, going down to Calcutta. We made a party of eight, and sat up till twelve, talking to little profit, chiefly
* A kind of religious mendicant.
BOGWONGOLA. 59
about the siege of Bhurtpore. Yesterday morning we separated, and were accompanied the whole of the day by the Messrs. B, who joined with us in morning and evening worship.
"Dec. 23rd, 1806. (Bogwongola) . Yesterday morning we waited on General P. and afterwards visited the place appointed for public worship, a large upper room. In the afternoon, we visited the hospital. I drew near the bed of a man apparently in the last stage of disease, who received the word with tears, and requested me to pray with him. Hav- ing made this known, P. invited the others to draw near : a large party collected from all parts of the hospital. I ex- pounded the third chapter of St. John's Gospel, and prayed. Much attention in the poor men.
" I left Berhampore this morning at seven o'clock ; and, after passing through a well-cultivated and fertile country, arrived here at twelve. I am now on the great river, pro- ceeding to Mr. Creighton* at Gomalty. I am much pained at heart on account of separation from dear Parson, and disheart- ened at the prospect of being so long on the way to Chunar ; and tired with the importunity of the natives. Never, never have I felt so keenly the separation from dear relatives ; but I have no wish to draw back, but would pray and hope that " God will be the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever/' in and through Jesus Christ.
" Dec. 26th. Last night I arrived at Gomalty, and found a very kind reception from Mr. Creighton. In the course of con- versation, I have learned that he, with Messrs. Ellerton and Grant, have instituted about twelve schools in the villages, in this neighbourhood, in which many children of the poornatives are taught to read and write ; and Christian tracts, and the New Testament in Bengalee are read to them, and by them. One Brahmin objected to the reading the Holy Scirptures ; but, some parts of them being read to him, his objections were removed, and he considered that they were very good. * Superintendent of Indigo works.
60 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
In one of the schools the master is a Brahmin, who teaches these tracts, &c. ; though he says, that if the sentiments contained in them prevail, the Brahmin's power will soon be at an end. The salary allowed the teachers is five rupees * per month ; for which they teach as many children as choose to come. In one school about seventy or eighty children attended at first ; and about forty still continue to come. In this school thirty have been taught, and are gone off to dif- ferent employments. Many of the boys have made con- siderable proficiency in reading and writing ; and through them, the knowledge of the Scriptures is diffused to a con- siderable extent; the consequence is, that much less dis- sension is found in the neighbourhood ; so that when the native missionaries come amongst them, the people are much more ready to hear them than in other districts. They hear, also, with much attention, and in general approve of Christian truth.
' Dec. 27th. To-day Mr. Creighton sent for the school- master of the place with his little charge, about fourteen : some others were in the habit of attending, but were at this time absent. The method of teaching is by writing the charac- ter in the sand, and then pronouncing the letter ; thus they learn both to read and write at the same time : some of the children have made considerable advancement. The manners of the children are much the same as those of children at home ; and much gratification did their contented faces and their little tricks afford me.
'Dec. 29th. Yesterday morning Messrs. W. the two B's and A. came over to attend Divine worship. At ten oj clock we went and heard the Bengalee missionaries preach to their countrymen : the three appear to be humble and sincere Christians. Those who understood them say, that the preaching was very energetic and eloquent.
" Gomalty, Jan. 1st. 1807. I would begin the new year by reviewing the old. The mercies of the past year are * About ten shillings sterling.
GOMALTY. 61
many and great ; and, for these mercies, I am bound to be exceedingly thankful. During the voyage, my attempts were not without some good effects on the minds of V. and Y. especially : the Lord made my presence a restraint on some who would otherwise have been more profane, and gave me favour in the sight of many : kind friends have been raised up for me in India, wherever I have come, and all my wants have been abundantly supplied. These mercies call for the loudest praise to Him who rules on high ; but especially do spiritual mercies call for gratitude : that I have been kept from gross sins before men ; that I have not been permitted wholly to res- train prayer before God, or to cast off His fear ; that I have been enabled in public preaching to declare what I believe to be the whole counsel of God ; and that some tokens of Divine approbation have been granted to His word. I feel a growing boldness to speak for God in private, and something more of a power to cast off the fear of man. These are subjects which may well furnish matter for everlasting songs. I would record what I feel still wrong, that I may be dis- posed to live more simply on Christ for strength as well as righteousness. I find a disposition to seek the applause of men, which sometimes leads me into words and actions which grieve the Holy Spirit, and wound my own soul. There is a sinful nature ; a disposition to rest in the form of godliness ; and a spirit of indolence which causes me to waste hours and days to no profit. These things grieve and bow down my soul. I would, also, record my purposes, that I may be bound to perform them. I intend to keep aloof from visiting parties at Chunar, as much as I can ; to establish worship as often as possible ; and to teach and preach Jesus Christ, ' publicly and from house to house,' both to professed Christians, and to the heathen. But, when I reflect how most of my resolutions have hitherto come to nothing, 0 Lord, let thy power rest upon me ! I would record my most earnest desires, to mark the Lord's dealings with me, and His answers to prayer. My first
62 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
desire is, that a ' door may be opened ' at Chunar, and that I may have power to enter in thereat, that so ' the word of God may have free course and be glorified ' in the conver- sion of souls. Secondly, that my dear family may be the special objects of the favour of Jehovah ; and that my dear sister may come out to me, if it be the will of God, other- wise not. Thirdly, that V., Y., and B., may be kept from the power of the devil, the world, and the flesh ; and that they may be redeemed and preserved from all iniquity, and have liberty to serve God without fear. Fourthly, that the choicest mercies both of Providence and Grace, may descend on all whose hearts have been disposed to favour me ; and that the Government of India may be disposed to permit, at least, attempts for the conversion of the natives ; and that the kingdom of Christ may come. And, 0 Lord, I would devote my life, my strength, my every faculty, and every gift of grace, nature, or providence, wholly to thy service and glory ! I offer myself to Thee. 0 pardon, accept, and bless me, through Jesus Christ ; and bring these purposes to good effect, for thy name's sake !
" Jan. 6th. Left Mr. Creighton at Gomalty yesterday morn- ing. Jn travelling, found my mind somewhat stayed on God. I welcomed the budgerow, and the dreary river, as old though inconvenient friends, who would put me in the way of active usefulness. I was much pleased with the school in Mr. C/s bungalow ; and, from the pleasure the Brahmin showed, in making the scholars read the Bengalee New Testament, I have a hopeful presentiment that the kingdom of Satan, thus divided against itself, cannot stand long.
" Jan. 16th. This morning, I visited the wells near Monghyr.* One of the wells is cold ; but close to it, another bubbles up water, like the bubbles that rise from the bottom of a caldron as the water grows hot. I found this water so hot, that I was scarcely able to bear my hand
* The celebrated hot-well named " Seetacoom," — the fountain of Seeta. — BISHOP HEBER'S JOURNAL.
DINAPORE.
63
in it. Here, they say, Ram's wife bathed, after she had been stolen away, and recovered again by her husband. Many Brahmins and Faqueers were staying there ; and were very importunate for money. With a buckshish* I offered tracts, and was immediately told that a Sahib, a short time since, had left many. A very interesting boy, about fifteen years of age, read in one of the tracts, and told me that it meant, There is only one God, and that all their poojahs, &c., are vain. I spoke to him, and an old man, with several around; the boy seemed to understand perfectly what I meant; and said, that when he understood the matter thoroughly, he should leave off poojah ; and, as I spake of hell as the portion of wicked men, several behind showed symptoms of scorn. The old man discovered much impatience, but, for the buckshish, stayed till I had said all that I thought necessary. The boy's father manifested un- easiness, and evidently wished his son away ; but for the same reason permitted him to stay. The father said, that Adam was first created, and that all men are his children : that the world was drowned, and then Noah became the parent of us all. I replied that it was true ; and that Adam and Noah worshipped God, and paid no regard to poojahs and the river. Why, then, did they pay that regard to the creature, which was due only to God ? He answered, that when God should give all the world to be of the same opinion, it would be so. To which I replied, That it was true ; and that in England we worshipped God as Adam and Noah did ; and that now the word was sent to him.
" Jan. 26th. On Friday, I left the budgerow, and came through a most fertile country to Dinapore. I observed some of the customs of the natives which explained passages of Scripture. In the evening, the conversation of dear Martyn seemed to drive away all pain ; but weakness soon made me wish for rest. Yesterday, I preached here to an attentive people, from Matt. vii. 21 — 23. Some of the * Present.
64 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
officers scoffed. Oh ! what cause for thankfulness in the sweet communion I am favoured with in Martyn, and in the kindness I meet with on all hands ! 0 for a heart to praise the Lord for his goodness ! 0 for power to do His will, to love His work ; and for a spirit of compassion for perishing souls !
" Jan. 29th. Just leaving Dinapore to proceed to Chunar, in tolerable health and spirits. I have found but little of spiritual comfort ; though much pleasure in communion with dear Martyn. My purposes of labouring amongst the heathen are much revived, encouraged and strengthened, by the conversation of this dear friend : we agreed to exchange letters every other Monday. I found the vanity of worldly pursuits in the society I went into ; and perceive afresh that God is alone the tit and satisfying portion of the soul. 0 may I live under this impression, and may my life and conduct testify that it is a divine impression !
"Feb. 15th. On approaching Chunar, the appearance of the fort struck me as beautiful ; but, from the reports of its unhealthiness, I was ready to consider it as my grave, and approached it with a heavy heart. I have found some earnestness and liberty in praying for a blessing on my entrance in amongst them. I trust the Lord will be entreated."
CHAPTER IV.
SETTLEMENT AT CHUNAR.
CHUNAR, the first scene of Mr. Corrie's stated ministry in India, used to be a place of greater importance than it is now that the frontier of the British Empire has been so much extended in all directions. The fortress is spread over the sides of a high rock which is washed by the Ganges ; and although the place is not considered unhealthy, yet during some months in the year, the heat at Chunar is intense. The Europeans stationed there, when Mr. C. was chap- lain, were all military, and for the most part invalids, who, though unfit for active service, were equal to garrison-duty. Besides those Europeans and some Sepoys, there were a few half-castes of Portuguese extraction, and some native women who followed the army. Without the cantonments was a Hindoo and Mahomedan population amounting to 10,000 or
F
66 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
12,000 souls. The Europeans, also, at Secrole (about twelve miles from Chunar) became afterwards part of Mr. Corrie's charge ; whilst the vast heathen population of Benares, with its cruel and senseless superstitions, opened out a large field for the exercise of missionary zeal and Christian philanthropy.
The extracts given below from Mr. Corrie's journal and Letters, will explain the nature of his official duties, and missionary operations. It will be seen that he had many obstacles to encounter in his efforts to impart the knowledge of Christ to those " who lay in darkness and in the shadow of death. "* Among the many trials, too, which his faith had to sustain, not the least will appear to have arisen from the determined hostility to all missionary labours, manifested by the Government of India; in forgetfulness, it may be presumed, of the great truth, that as " the kingdoms of this world are " destined to " become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ," all opposition to the spread of Christianity is hostility to the " King of kings, "t
" Sunday, Feb. 22nd. This day I begin my labours at Chunar, and have much reason to adore him who heareth prayer, for smoothing my way, and opening a door of hope that good will be done. I arose at five o'clock this morning and prepared for divine service. At seven o'clock, I went to the place of worship, and found there the effective artillery- men, the garrison invalids, and several of the others, with the
* Luke i. 79. t Rev. xi. 15 ; xix. 16.
CHUNAR. 67
Colonel, Captain P., Lieut. A., and the invalid officers D. and H. with some other officers of the Fort. Observed several very attentive. At half past nine o'clock I went to the hospital, and found a table set, and the people very ready to hear, and attentive. Now, 0 Lord,
" Do thou the gracious harvest raise, And thine alone shall be the praise."
" Feb. 25th. This evening I went to see the Roman Catholic chapel, a small place of about eight feet square, surrounded with a veranda. A dish with spices, and another with flour, were placed on the altar. A Padre comes occa- sionally, but he has not been here for the last two years ; he has baptized several native women connected with Euro- peans ; but I cannot find that any other natives have been baptized by him.
" Feb. 27th. Yesterday and to-day, I had an opportu- nity of talking with some poor women, Portuguese Roman Catholics, about Jesus Christ ; and found some relief to my own mind in recommending Him to their regard. From one I learned (what indeed I had heard before) that at Bettiah, situate in what used to be the old kingdom of Ne- paul, eight days' journey inland from Chuprah, all the inhabitants are Roman Catholic Christians : a padre re- sides amongst them, and they have a church.
" March 8th. The week has passed with little profit. I received a letter from dear Martyn,* which comforted me not a little. On returning from public service, I found some earnestness in prayer to God for my flock ; for the Church in India ; and her ministers ; for my dear relatives ; for my former flock, and all who pray for me ; but especially for my dear country, her government, her ministers, her peo- ple ; and for all Christians. After dinner I called in the Bettiah-christian,t and found him intelligent, and very at-
* See the Journals and Letters of Henry Martjn, vol. ii, p. 21. t Mr. Corrie relates (below, p. 73.) in what way, his acquaintance with this Bettiah-christian commenced.
F 2
68 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.
tentive to his padre. He gave me the history of the crea- tion and fall of man, with a mixture of fable, and some con- fusion in the connexion. He seems to know nothing ex- perimentally of Christ ; and, if I understood him rightly, considers that the sin of Adam, which fell upon his posterity, is removed by Christ ; and that now by attending to the sacraments we obtain pardon of sin. God grant me wisdom to deal prudently with him : he appears sincere, but not very humble.
" March 9th. This morning I went to the hospital, in consequence of a message from a native woman, who is de- sirous of baptism : she appeared anxious to go in God's way, as she expressed it ; and with tears said, that from her heart she desired baptism. On my asking her whether she was a sinner ? She replied, That before, or towards God, she was a sinner : but on being further questioned, confessed she did not know wherein she had done amiss, except it were in living in an unmarried state ; looking wistfully at the man. I took occasion, from this confession, to speak of the evil of this circumstance, and of the only way of obtaining forgive- ness, through the blood of Christ. She promised to keep this word in her heart, and to pray according to my direc- tions. The man appears sensible of the evil of his present habits ; and promises that, if the woman lives, he will marry her. I am at a loss how to proceed : to refuse her bap- tism will evidently be a grief to her ; and I hope she is awakened to a sense of her sin. May the Lord direct me !
" March 15th. I went yesterday evening to the barracks ; and if circumstances had been favourable, should have mar- ried the persons above-mentioned ; but find I should have broken military regulations if I had done so. To-day, the man seems unwilling ; but the woman expressed dread at the thought of continuing in sin. I have observed, on se- veral occasions, when explaining Christian subjects through a native who understands English, that they [the natives]
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have a great reluctance to speak of Jesus^Christ, and never do it till I urge it again.
" March 17th. A letter from dear Martyn dispirits me ;* as, from the dislike manifested to his schools, I may see how little is to be hoped for : yet we expect opposition ; why then should I be dismayed ? 0 my soul ! hope in God ! Notwithstanding, I have engaged a schoolmaster, and am waiting to see the result. I have employed myself to-day in translating the ten commandments into Hindoostanee, with the assistance of a moonshee. He could not, for a long time, understand why God is called a f jealous God.'
"March 18th. A native woman has been with me, ex- pressing her desire for baptism. I made the moonshee read to her the ten commandments ; and could not help smiling to hear one Hindoo explain the law of God to another : she exhibits no humility. The Bettiah-christian pleased me much this evening : he mentioned four good works which God approved of; three of which I understood to be faith, love, and obedience to the law. I replied, that if faith was in the heart, all the other good works would follow ; if we really believed the love of Christ to sinners, we must love Him in return. He answered, that it was true'; and said, If faith is not in the heart, none of the other graces would be there. All this was said with a seriousness and gravity which looked very like sincerity, if it was not really so. A female attending the woman who has applied for baptism, interfering very improperly, was desired to hold her peace. She left the room with marks of great anger, having before exhibited symptoms of uneasiness ; especially when the seventh commandment was repeated. So does Satan "rage when his strongholds are attacked !
" March 22nd. In conversation with Mooney Lol and Moonshee, on the necessity of making inquiry for ourselves in matters of the soul, I remarked an expression which has
* See Journals and Letters of Henry Martyn, vol. ii. p. 28, 29.
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dwelt much on my mind : ' When we have a king of our own to order us in the right way, we will then walk in it.' This, with other circumstances, convinces me of the impo- licy of the Government, in withholding Christianity from the natives. They are tasting of British liberty ; but, having no principles to guide them, when they feel their strength, they will expel the British ; whereas now, if missionaries were permitted, they would, in two generations, probably all embrace Christianity.
tf March 26th. This evening, after conversation with the native woman, I baptized her, with earnest warning not to trust to the outward sign. She said, She had been a sinner, but that she would pray to Jesus, night and day, to make her free from sin, and would be His slave, and serve Him for ever. After the service she cast her eyes up to heaven, and kept them fixed for some time, with an appearance of most ardent supplication. Afterwards I went home with Sergeant M'D., whose wife, though a Roman Catholic, wishes to communicate.
" April 2nd. Yesterday morning I went to the barracks. I asked the native woman whom I lately baptized, whether she prayed ? She answered, ' Yes/ ( What do you pray to God for ? ' ' To make me well in this world if He pleases ; and if not, to take me to Himself.' I endeavoured to impress on her the necessity of asking all in Christ's name ; which she seemed to attend to very diligently. The man was impressed. In the evening I went to bury a child ; and spoke to three invalids, plainly and at length, on the necessity of winning Christ.
" April 6th. I learned from the Moonshee that the old schoolmaster, in order to keep his scholars from the free school, circulated a report that I should send the children to Calcutta ; which, it seems, keeps many back ; but this no- tion, however, is now done away with.
" April 8th. Yesterday the Bettiah-walla came again after an absence of a fortnight. He said he had been unwell ; and
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his appearance bespoke it. He told me that he was poor and helpless without Jesus Christ. To-day he came again, and read, with evident interest, the fourteenth and fifteenth chapters of St. John ; especially the promise of being one with God and Christ. The account of the fruitless branches also impressed him ; and he confessed that his heart was backward towards God. This morning the children of the school came to me : I was much struck with their ap- pearance, and artless manners. The Bettiah-walla received the ten commandments with reluctance : the second is not in his number. I took several occasions of pointing out to him the name of Jesus, as the only medium of access to God ; and observed that we must not pray to saints. At hearing this, his countenance fell. 0 that the Lord may lead him into all truth !
" April 10th, 1807. This day I have completed my thir- tieth year. I have been reviewing my birth-day memoranda, and I feel quite abased. Alas ! where is the blessedness I experienced some time back ; or was I then under a mistake as to my real state ? I suspect that much of animal feeling mixed with my former experience, for I think my soul is as fixed as ever, in knowing nothing upon earth but f Jesus Christ and him crucified/ Yet, 0 my God (for mine thou art) search me ! The Lord's mercies to me are innume- rable : if I should attempt to number them, they exceed the minutes of my existence ; but alas ! my heart is insensible ; my affections are as cold as ice : I am become a stone to the fear of death ; and the terror of the Lord, rather than the sweet love of Jesus Christ, seems to constrain all my doings. There is not a desire, I think, to keep back a tittle of God's word. I even feel the time long till the Lord's day returns, that I may have an opportunity of warning poor sinners : yet when it comes my heart is heavy ; and I go with a kind of sullenness and desponding tardiness to God's work. O that it were with me as in months past ! The Lord has marvellously hid me from the strife of tongues, has wonder- fully supported my feeble mind, has enabled me to seek the
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salvation of souls with a boldness unusual to my nature ; and has given testimony to the word of His grace in this place. He supports me in solitude, and enables me to spend days alone without weariness : praised be His name ! The undivided and glorious Trinity are worthy of my adoration and love. 0 rather let me go mourning thy absence to the grave than attempt to satisfy my soul with contemptible trash ! Yet, in thy manifold mercies, let me taste thy love, and praise thee in the use of all that thou bestowest ! The prosperity of Zion is my earnest desire : the conversion of the British and the heathen, the success of my preaching, schools, and private attempts [to do good] are the subjects of my daily prayer. 0 that the Lord would bless these feeble efforts, would perfect that which belongeth unto me ! Into thy hands, 0 Lord, I commend my soul and body : and look with humble hope to be kept by thy power through faith unto salvation.
Cl Martyn alarms me by expressing a wish for my re- moval.* I feel very reluctant to it ; and am enabled to resign myself to God in prayer, even to die here ; if, in this way, He will be more glorified/'
" April 12th. This evening, I buried the native woman whom I lately baptized ; and spoke to the people from 1 Cor. xv. 33. ' Evil communications corrupt good manners.' 0 Lord, grant thy blessing ! Let thy promise come, and then shall sinners in great numbers be converted unto thee ! "
The following Letter to Mr. Buckworth dated May 22nd, 1807, contains some interesting particu- lars of which there is no record in the Journal : —
" From the first of January till the beginning of this month, I was much affected by this climate ; and did not
* On account of the effect which the heat of the climate seemed to be producing on Mr. Corrie's health. See JOURNALS AND LETTERS OF HENRY MARTTN, vol. ii. p. 42.
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begin to recover till April. Thanks to a kind Providence, I am now quite well ; and have escaped that first attack on arri- val, which has carried off four of my fellow-passengers. The effect of this climate was felt as severely by my mind as my body : a listlessness and languor rendered any little exertion a burden : even my devotion was for the most without life or activity ; and, alas ! little of that lively spirit I, in some poor measure, enjoyed in England, remains with me. I bless God who enables me to live on Christ as my { All in All/ and keeps alive in my heart a sense of the value of His favour, and the excellency of the ' purchased possession/ The absence of lively feeling I conceive to be occasioned by the want of ' the communion of saints ; ' and I remember, with tears sometimes, those days f when I went to the house of God with the multitude of those that kept holy day/ I am very far, however, from being without marks of the Divine favour : I am enabled to spend weeks alone without weari- ness ; and to find pleasure in those studies which may qualify me for extensive usefulness. We have here about three hundred Europeans, invalids, and officers ; of the latter I see little, although we exchange mutual civilities : perhaps, I am not three hours in a week, on the average, in civilized society ; though I might be much more if I chose, but find it my duty and privilege to avoid much visiting.
" One Sergeant has embraced the truth in love, I trust ; and some others are hopeful. A native, descended from Roman Catholic parents, has been daily with me ; and we read the gospel in Hindoostanee together : he is a man of good understanding. When I found him here (February) he had not seen the Scriptures : he now understands much of the general sense of the gospels ; and evidences a pleasing spirit of enquiry. I am not at present, however, without fears respecting his real conversion. Should it please God to work effectually in him, the blessing to his poor countrymen might prove incalculable. You will wonder, perhaps, that
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I do not speak with rapture on the subject of the conversion of the natives ; be assured, dearest B., no subject is nearer my heart ; and this I feel assured of, that whilst health and strength remain, my life shall be devoted to the furtherance of this work, as well as the more immediate objects of my present appointment. The works of the devil are here ma- nifest, and excite an abhorrence in my soul, which, by the grace of God, will to the last make me labour to destroy them : but the effects of my labours are not, according to human appearance, likely to be immediate. The rising ge- neration seem to be the most likely subjects ; and some fa- voured servant of Christ may, probably, lay my head in the dust, and enter on his labour here among ' a people prepared for the Lord/ But ' they who sow and they who reap shall rejoice together ' in the day of our Lord's appearing.
The superstition of this country is of such a complicated kind, that I can say nothing with certainty about it, at present. Almost every person has a different idol ; or a different ac- count of the same idol ; and the objects of their worship are innumerable. A circumstance that took place yesterday morning, may help to shew you the folly of their worship : its wickedness, in some respects, cannot be named. The fort of Chunar (in which I live) is a fortified hill of about two miles in circumference ; the ramparts command an extensive view on all sides, and most mornings I take a walk upon them before sun-rise. It seems, that the first founder of this fort and his tutor are both ca- nonized, and are supposed to preside here still, and are worshipped as tutelar deities. Yesterday morning, at the south end, most remote from the guard-house, I found the firelock, turban, and sacred drinking-vessel of one of the sentinels : a brahmin was placed by the sentry-box, and was observed by me below. I passed on. As I returned, he spoke ; but I did not stop. Thinking afterwards that he might be ill, I called a servant, and sent him to see. Now observe. He said that, at three in the morning, he had seen
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two figures of men approaching, that he challenged them, and that they immediately flew upon him, beat him unmerci- fully, and, after he was stripped, kicked him off the rampart, ten feet at least (the ramparts were certainly seven feet high). The Jemadar (a native officer) who, with others, was come to his assistance, was very angry with him, and said these figures were the identical founder of the fort and his tutor, who dwell in this part of the fort, and have thrown two sen- tinels over the parapet for interrupting them : this the brah- min before mentioned believed, and this opinion was cur- rent. I asked how this god came to beat him, a brahmin, so sacred a man ? He readily answered, That the tutor is not a good, but a bad spirit ; and they worship him to keep him from doing them injury. I said to some others, that it was quite plain that even a brahmin himself was not be- yond the power of these demons ; how then could they ex- pect the brahmins to defend them ? They were silent ; but evidently not convinced, as they offer goats in sacrifice, and pour out wine in libations, which they fancy the demon eats and drinks. I told them not to be so profuse in their offer- ings, lest Bhyzoonat should become so wanton as to destroy them all.
A rich Brahmin told me yesterday that if any one died in Benares, or within ten miles of it, he would undoubtedly go to heaven, though he were ever so great an offender. I told him I would come some night and plunder his house, and then go to Benares, and so secure both present and future riches. He saw my meaning, and said with a smile, t there is no need for Sahib to take any money by force ; my wealth is all at his feet/ and so evaded my argument. I could fill volumes with conversations of this kind, but they have no more seeming effect than words spoken to the air ; so deeply-rooted is error in their minds, and so congenial are their lying idols to the corrupt nature of man. I should not, however, forget the power of God, nor limit its oper- ation. This I feel sure of, that the young, with means of
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instruction, will grow up ashamed of their idolatry ; and means of instruction are not now entirely wanting. My three dear sons in the faith (young officers who were fellow- passengers) continue to walk in the truth. 0, were the British all true Christians, the conversion of the heathen world, humanly speaking, would be comparatively an easy work ! The appointment of Chaplain is, in this point of view, important."
It will be recollected (p. 62), that a short time before Mr. Corrie left Calcutta to proceed to Chunar, he had consulted with Mr. Brown and other friends, as to the means by which they " might best promote the glory of God in the earth," and that among other means that were deemed likely to contribute towards so noble an object, one was, that each of the parties then present should forward a quarterly report of his ministerial plans and prospects, to Mr. Brown in Calcutta ; who, having appended his own observations, should transmit a copy of the combined reports to each Individual.*
It was considered that a mutual knowledge of the facts and observations which might be accumulated in the course of each other's labours and experience, would tend greatly to encourage and direct them as individuals, amid the difficulties which the Missionary and Chaplain had then to contend with. The first
* Journals and Letters of Henry Martyn, vol. ii. p. 41. See some of the like quarterly communications from Mr. Brown, printed in Wilkinson's Sketches of Christianity in North India, pp. 145. and 169.
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of these Reports seems to have been made on the 6th of April 1807, but no copy of Mr. Corrie's communications is met with among his papers, of an earlier date than the Eeport which is here subjoined.
" Chunar, July 6, 1807.
" The same routine of engagements and employments offers little of variety, either to amuse or profit my ho- noured brethren ; but the idea of being under an engage- ment to communicate something on this day, has been no little spur to activity, that I might have something to relate to them. The motive I feel to be an unworthy one ; but those among whom I am placed may have been benefited from it, and our plan will redound to their benefit at least.
" My mind has at times, been sorely exercised with temp- tations to give up all exertion in the cause of Christ, and take my ease like those around me ; more especially, about a fortnight since, the improbability of success, the sneers of the world, the dread of singularity, were the chief en- gines the enemy attacked me with, respecting the Euro- peans ; respecting the Heathen, his suggestions were chiefly, the opposition of government, the extreme ignorance of the natives, the fear of commotions in the country, should I attempt their conversion. These, like fiery darts, were at different times, and in divers ways, cast into my soul, and grievously wounded me. I bless God, whose love is everlasting, that He has rebuked the tempter. I look back as one who has escaped shipwreck, barely with life ; and I feel determined, through the grace of Christ, to count not even life dear unto myself, so that I may finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
" We have had divine service regularly every Sunday morning, at sun-rise, in the fort. Our commanding officer
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has for some time left off attending, though he continues very civil and obliging. He makes ill health an excuse ; although he has occasionally been in the fort soon after the time of worship, and without any cause but his own plea- sure, Another officer has also left off attending, although for some time after my first arrival, he was regularly among us. Some others have all along been irregular in their at- tendance, and continue to come occasionally. The gentle- man and his wife, I alluded to in my last report, do not go on as I had hoped, though they are very kind, and my only intimate associates. Although he does not enter into my views, he yet talks familiarly with me on the subject of religion, and tells me his own views and feelings respecting it ; which, together with their regular attendance on public worship, made me to hope they were under a divine influence. But, oh, the love of this present evil world, is a clog which weighs down the souls even of those who know more of its vanity, than these [persons] at present do.
" Among the common men, I trust some good has been done, although little to lasting benefit, as yet. I mentioned a sergeant of Invalids, who joined himself to me soon after my arrival. He is now in the hospital, and seemingly in the last stage of sickness. He made a profession of godli- ness in his youth, in England, it seems. He is now greatly alive to the consequences of death. He is become extremely communicative, and in comparison of what he used to be, eloquent. His experience is .such a lesson to backsliders, as makes me anxious to communicate it separately, when the final scene may be closed ; and, therefore, I shall say nothing more of him here.
"A. Serjeant on the pension-list, has, since my last, evinced considerable concern for salvation ; and is, I trust, in a fair way. Another Serjeant also reads, and assents to the books I lend him, and I am told, is somewhat reformed in conduct ; but still is by no means a hopeful character.
" The native woman whom I baptized, died and was buried,
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April 12th. The man with whom she lived, is since mar- ried, having expressed great concern for his former conduct, and thanks for my admonitions ; declaring, at the same time, that he never before was told he was doing wrong, in this respect ; and that, for the fifteen years he has been in this country, he had not seen a clergyman, to his knowledge, till I arrived here. Another has put away his native woman ; and another is now desiring to be married, but his command- ing officer refuses to give permission, on the score of the woman's character.
" No public worship as yet has been established at the barracks, chiefly in consequence of my health having been very unsettled. I am anxiously hoping to be able soon to have opportunity of speaking to them publicly the word of life. It oppresses me with grief, when I can feel as I ought, that many, perhaps 150, of the number of Invalids, seldom, or never join the public worship. The man who for some time has read prayers in his dwelling on Sunday mornings, continues to do so, being lame, and so unable to come up to the Fort ; I fear, however, he is without experience of the love and grace of Christ. On Whitsunday I administered the Lord's Supper to four. Thus far respecting the Euro- peans here, whom I consider myself, in a peculiar manner, called to attend to.
" At Secrole, which I visited last week, I found a mer- chant of real piety, though from his relating of a vision, he is, in my opinion, something enthusiastic. He devotes much time to the relief of poor and sick natives. He, for some time, read prayers on Sunday mornings and evenings, to the few artillery-men in their barracks ; till, on his imprudently administering medicine to a sick man, he was forbidden all communication with them. He, however, still reads prayers and a sermon, in his own house, on Sundays, and some join him. One artillery-man, he speaks of, as a true Christian. He had not before met with any who could understand him, and had frequent thoughts of writing to Mr. Brown ; but feared that
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his letter would not be welcome. He is a stiff churchman ; and when I asked him whether he had read the Missionary Magazine, which I saw in his shop, he started at the idea, and said ' He never had any connection with Dissenters/
1 ' Respecting the heathen, I have instituted four schools for the instruction of children ; two on each side the Fort. On either side, one for Hindoos, and one for Mussulmans. In one Hindoo school are thirty-seven : in the other thirteen. In one Mussulman school, are twenty-two ; in the other sixteen. In all eighty-eight children. Of these a few now know their letters, and I am much exercised in mind re- specting the introduction of the Scriptures among them. The Gooroos are quite averse to any books ; it has never been the custom, they say, for them to read books ; and the Mahomedans have books. I trust the Lord will guide me, and not suffer me to mar his work by my extreme ignorance of the best mode of proceeding. The nearer I approach the work, the greater appears its difficulty, the more I feel my own insufficiency. If any good is done among us, how evidently will it appear to be of God.
"Not having a copy of my last report, I know not whether I mentioned some native Roman Catholic Christians who daily attended me for reading the Scriptures. Only one of four continues to come, and he seems to be in earnest. He has with great reluctance been brought to confess, that at least the purgatory of the Papists, their transubstantiation, and prayer to saints, have no foundation in Scripture. He has read the Gospels through ; St. John twice, and we are now going through St. Matthew a second time. He has brought his wife and family to Chunar -, and has expressed a wish to instruct his native brethren, if I will find him sub- sistence. After many expressions of this kind, I told him, that he must consider that the Company give no authority for this ; that he must expect no more favour than others, from the British ; that I would only support him with neces- saries, but should expect his children would be taught to
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earn their bread ; and desired him to reflect seriously on the subject, and make it matter of prayer to God. He has not expressed so much eagerness since this^ as before. He, how- ever, has much conversation with the native baptized persons; tells them faithfully of their sin and heathen practices ; and I think is himself a true Christian. He yesterday explained to me the Parable of the Sower very exactly, without re- ference to our Lord's explanation. It may not be amiss to transcribe a few remarks I have noted down respecting this man's knowledge of divine truth. I understand him better than he understands me, but I enquire of him the meaning of what I have said, till I find he has caught the idea I wish to convey.
" Saturday, May 16th. The Bettiah-walla remembered very exactly what I explained to him yesterday of our Lord's discourse with Nicodemus ; he, also, remembered very cor- rectly the explanation of the allusion to the brazen serpent, repeating what I had told him of that transaction. On asking him, in what sense must we look to Christ ; he answered, Jesus Christ is not now on the cross : but, as He said to Thomas, who seeing the prints of the nails in his hands, cried out ' My Lord and my God,' — ' Blessed is he that hath not seen, and yet hath believed/ so it is with our hearts that we must look to Him ; and believing that He hath given his blood for us, and having our hearts made clean by His Spirit, we shall not perish, but have everlasting life. He explained John iii. 17. (without being asked) very scriptural - ly, and evidently with a sense of its value.
" May 18th. In the afternoon, I had pleasure in acquir- ing the Hindoostanee. On asking the Bettiah-walla what was meant by the declaration, ' No man can come to me ex- cept the Father which hath sent me draw him ; ' he answered, ' No one desires to come to Christ unless God enlighten his mind, and dispose his heart.' On asking him, What is meant by the expression, in John vi. 40. ' Seeing the Son ; ' he replied, ' Seeing Him in his word, and with our hearts.'
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He has had a conversation with a Mahomedan, who con- cluded with saying that Mahomet was the last prophet. The Bettiah- walla answered, ' According to their own book Jesus is Noor-Ullah, i. e. the Son of God, that He died, and rose, and went up to heaven, and will come to judg- ment : ' The Mahomedan consented. Bettiah-walla : ' Tour prophet is sleeping, as you allow ; whether is greatest, a sleeping or a living prophet ? ' He allowed that the living one was the greatest, and promised to come again to-morrow. The Bettiah-walla answered to my question, ' How it is that if any man will do His will he shall know of the doctrine whether it be of God.' (John vii. 17.) ' The Holy Ghost will come upon him and make his heart glad and holy.' J
" On one occasion I discovered him in a fault, which he confessed with tears, making no attempt to conceal it, and I believe has not fallen into it again. It was at a time I per- ceived him to be much puffed up with his attainments, and would gladly have made him feel the force of the apostle's words, ' Let him that thinketh &c/
" My chief employment has been the study of Hindoos- tanee, in which however I have made but little progress, from frequent indisposition. My experience has in general been of a very painful kind. Accustomed to enjoy the com- munion of saints, and the comfort of their faith and love, I know but little, I perceive, how to live by faith. That pas- sage has been the food of my soul for some time past. 2 Cor. i. 22. The name of Jesus has been refreshing ( as ointment poured forth ; ' and in this name, I doubt not finally to triumph."
It may not, perhaps, be considered foreign to the purpose of these Memoirs to relate, that the sergeant of invalids referred to in the foregoing Keport of Mr. Corrie's proceedings, was the son of a dissenting minister at St. Albans, and had been religiously
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brought up ; but that, having cast off the fear of God, he had run a sad career of sin and intemperance, until arrested in his course by the sickness which proved fatal to him. Many short notices occur, in Mr. Corrie's journal, of the sergeant's last illness ; and a fuller account of him appeared at the time, in the Cottage Magazine. It may suffice, therefore, to state that after the unhappy man had passed through many alternations of terror and despair, in the fearful expectation of a judgment to come, there was reason to believe that he went down to the grave in hope. Respecting the Bettiah-christian and the Mahomedan who are noticed in the Eeport, some further account occurs in a letter to the Rev. J. Buckworth.
« August 2nd. 1807.
" By a letter received this day, from my sister, I learn the very agreeable tidings of your presentation to the vicarage of Dewsbury. This event takes away indeed, every latent hope that your lot might have been cast in India ; but the souls of the people of Dewsbury are of equal value with those of Asia ; and I earnestly pray that you may reap a rich harvest of souls as a reward of your labours among them. . .
" But whilst I am taken up with those whose faces I have seen in the flesh, you are wanting to know how the work of the Lord prospers in India. I can only say that the general aspect of spiritual affairs is pleasing. Were you to ask par- ticulars, I could not, perhaps, satisfactorily tell you why I say so ; yet the progress of translation of the holy Scriptures, with the increased numbers of faithful enquirers, is surely matter of hope. I could dwell much on the labours of that dear servant of Christ, Martyn, in translating, and in ex-
G 2
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citing himself to propagate the knowledge of salvation among Europeans and heathen ; but, without an intimate acquaint- ance with this country and people, much explanation would be necessary. For myself, the climate has so much affected me as to make the retrospect of my life nearly a blank : some fruit, however, has already appeared, Praised be He who ' giveth the increase ! ' . . . .
" The native Christian 1 formerly mentioned, has re- nounced the errors of Popery, of his own accord, after a good deal of argument in favour of his old opinions. I believe him to be sincere, and that his heart is right with God. Sometimes he seems amused rather than grieved with the opposition of the Jews to our Lord ; but this, though it gives me pain, is not so much to be wondered at, from the ex- treme want of reflection manifested by all the natives. I now allow him support for himself, wife, and two children. He is very ready in reproving and exhorting a class of people, descendants of the Portuguese, who are very numerous in India, and are nominal Christians. He warns them faithfully of the sin and folly of people called Christians, living as do the heathen ; and, at my instance, he reads to them the Scrip- tures very frequently : so that I hope he may be made an instrument of good. By his means, also, a Mahomedan has been brought at least to doubt the divine commission of the lying prophet, This man now frequently comes to me. He has read the Sermon on the Mount (which I happily had by me, translated into Persian, by a Mr. Chambers, now dead) and manifests a very pleasing earnestness in search of truth . Nearly one hundred and twenty children are learning to read, at my expence : the circumstance of being able to read the Scriptures when put into their hands will be of no small advantage; as the custom of the son's persisting in the business and steps of the father, precludes the multitude from ever thinking the knowledge of letters desirable. Indeed the character in which their sacred books are written is not allowed to be read by any but Brahmins. The written
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and printed characters are the same ; as they have had no printed books till of late ; so that in learning they have an advantage over us, as they learn to read and write at the same time, first making the letter with chalk, or in the dust, and then pronouncing it. I have had much pleasure at times in exercising the proficiency of the children. Some of them have countenances expressive of every good quality : the difference of the complexion is forgotten under the im- pression that f of one blood hath God made all the families of the earth.' A small present delights the little fellows ; and they sometimes come up to me with smiling faces, as I pass 'j and make salaam with great appearance of attachment.
" I have said that appearances are pleasing : you will con- clude that I speak comparatively. Alas ! I ought to weep day and night at the reflection, that in this small place there are about 10,000, souls ' sitting in darkness and the shadow of death!' 0 that the Lord may speedily open a door for the entrance of Divine light among them ! I am learning the native language as fast as my slothful nature, and the un- settled state of my affairs, calling me continually here and there, will let me. My Moonshee can now perfectly under- stand me : and when I tell him my meaning, he points out the proper word. In this way, besides my reading for instruc- tion, I have translated the history of Joseph ; and also to the sixth chapter of Genesis ; and have got to the seventh of Acts. These will soon be useless, as better translations will be to be had ; but they are of use to the above-mentioned native Christian for himself, and those who listen to his conversation ; and these exercises improve myself. I shall begin Persian soon (D. V.) The Hebrew is a key to the Arabic ; and Arabic and Persian are so blended with the Hindoostanee, the popular language of this country, that without the knowledge of Arabic and Persian, Hindoostanee cannot be perfectly understood,
" In order, too, to translate accurately, you know, the knowledge of Hebrew and Greek is necessary. You would
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be astonished at the subtilty with which the Hindoos (I mean learned Hindoos) argue on religious points. A rich man of this place one day visiting me, we entered into a discussion respecting one of their incarnations of the deity. The incarnate God, from their account, married many wives, had many children, &c. and when I observed that these things could not be the actions of God, assigning my reasons, &c. he readily answered, that the deity having taken to himself a human body, these actions were the actions of the man, and the godhead residing in him had no part in them ; that I ac- knowledged Messiah ate, drank, slept &c, which were as little the actions of God, as those related of Krishnoo. I answered, that the body being the instrument of the soul, needs refreshment to support it in its labours ; but that the body cannot accomplish any of its desires without the con- currence of the spirit that actuates it ; so that this multiply- ing of wives, and other acknowledged sinful actions, would not have been accomplished by Krishnoo without the anima- ting spirit. He at length left me, something in anger.
" I have written this at different intervals, which may apo- logize for its blots and inaccuracies : but why should I make apologies to you ? With what inexpressible tenderness does the remembrance of the sweet counsel I have taken with you, return at times ! I can now, in my mind's eye, view the roads we walked together, the houses we visited, the com- panies we frequented ; — the hymns we sang together, the petitions we joined in at the throne of grace, are many of them fresh in mind; and, when I am in tolerably good spirits, they delight me exceedingly.
1 e But, my general expeirence is of a more painful nature : doubts and temptations press hard upon me. The enerva- ting effects of the climate make all my graces wither; and I go on rather in the spirit of sullen obstinacy than under the influence of the constraining love of Jesus.
" I hope you have written to me. Think of a solitary being, on the top of a hill ninety feet above the level of the
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water, without a creature near to speak a word of comfort, or to suggest a word of advice ; and you will not think an hour thrown away that may support and animate his soul in the pursuit of ' a kingdom that cannot be moved/ '
The anniversary of the day on which Mr. Corrie arrived in Calcutta, is marked by the following entry made in his jonrnal,
" September 20th. 1807. On this day of the month last year, I arrived in Calcutta from England. I have deter- mined, through grace, to keep new-ye"ar's-day, my birth-day, days of ordination, and of my arrival in India, as days of examination into my state and views. On reviewing the memoranda connected with this day, I find great cause for thankfulness and praise. What I proposed, in the first place, in coming to India, was the propagation of Chris- tianity amongst the heathen. I had little idea of the diffi- culties attending this work ; yet, blessed be God ! I have not lost sight of it. Four schools will, I trust, prepare many for reading the word of life, when it is ready for dis- tribution. The native Christian has profited greatly by the New Testament : he appears truly pious ; and his desire to instruct others, whilst, I hope, it proves his own sincerity, will, no doubt, be beneficial to many. My prayers, also, have been answered as it regards this place. One is de- parted in peace : one or two others are, I hope, impressed ; most are attentive ; and favour is shewed me by all. I have experienced much mercy in restoration to health ; and es- pecially in the restoring to me the joy of God's salvation ; and the Lord continues to ' defend me with His favour as with a shield/ I feel in danger from the love of the world ; yet, I hope, I shall be able to overcome it. I have often dedicated my all to God ; and I do again now devote my all, especially myself do I give up. I ought to have made greater proficiency in the Hindoostanee ; but I trust, through the power of Christ, to be more assiduous for the future."
CHAPTER V.
RESIDENCE AT CHUNAR.
ALTHOUGH Mr. Corrie had been but a short time at Chunar, yet it was evident that his ministerial labours there had begun to excite attention both among Hin- doos and Mahomedans. He had not, indeed, ac- quired such a knowledge of the language of the country as satisfied his earnest desire to make known among the heathen the glad tidings of salvation, yet he had made progress in Hindoostanee sufficient to enable him to hold important communications with the people of the country. We accordingly find in his Journal and Letters more frequent notices of his per- sonal intercourse with the native population.
" Sep. 21st. An Old Brahmin came from Benares, whom Wheatly told me of. He knows most of our church-cate- chism. He told me that the [answers to] two questions, those respecting our duty towards God, and our duty towards our neighbour, contained the sum of all good. For a long time he had a very bad opinion of the English. The Ma-
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homedans, he said, do abstain from one kind of meat ; but the English eat every thing. This bad opinion was con- firmed by hearing a gentleman, whom every person praised as a good man, in a great rage, using many abusive expres- sions to a servant for killing a rabbit which should not have been killed. But when he read the holy Scriptures, he found them pure, and that our practices were not consistent with them. This led him to ask whether I thought all the Eng- lish would be saved ? I answered, No : which startled him very much. ' I greatly fear/ said he, ' on that account/ ( If I lose caste, and afterwards come short of heaven, I shall fail in both worlds. ' This he said with tears. ' But/ said he, * I thought it must be so, because the tenth command- ment says, Thou shalt not covet, &c/ and then he told me a story of an English collector, who took by force a little spot of ground that he had devoted to the reception and enter- tainment of sick travellers, when he would not sell it to him : which stumbled him greatly. Baptism, and the eating of meat, which, he says, disagrees with him, are the rock he ap- pears likely to split upon. I told him the truth, and pointed it out to him from the Scriptures. The Lord render it effec- tual to his salvation ! I gave him a New Testament, at which he expressed great surprise^ saying, he supposed it would cost several rupees ; nor did he think my reason (viz.) the love of God, in giving his Son for me, sufficiently con- straining to induce me to give away a thing of such value.
" Sep. 27th. The Brahmin came on Tuesday ; and, after many endeavours to evade the force of God's word, agreed, with much weeping, to be baptized. I have some doubt of his sincerity on this point. He is gone to Calcutta."
"Dec. llth. Yesterday, an old Mahomedan called on me : we had a long conversation on religion. After some previous talking, he said ' The deity is above our comprehen- sion ; we are blind, and speak of Him as blind men do from handling an elephant ; each one according to his apprehension of the part he handles.7 I answered, * True ; but if a man
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possessing sight were to behold the elephant, he would de- scribe it properly ; and we might believe his report/ He answered, ' Yes/ 'Such/ I replied, 'were the prophets and apostles/ &c. This led him to speak of the various pro- phets in whom, he said, we trusted. < Our services [said he] are confessedly unworthy of God, therefore there is need that a worthy Mediator be found, &c. one who wants nothing for himself, but can merit for us.' "
Agreeably to the resolution which Mr. Corrie had formed, to observe New-year's-day as one of several days for self-examination, we find him observing in his journal :
" Chunar, January 1st. 1808. I praise God who has brought me thus far in mercy ; and I perceive a good mon- ument of praise on the review of the past. My first desire, on last New-year's-day, was to be enabled to be useful here ; and I mark an answer to prayer in that I am heard with attention, and have evidently obtained some influence amongst the people. One, I believe, is gone home to Christ ; whilst I trust, three others have entered on the narrow way. The Government yet prohibits attempts at conversion ; and the kingdom of Christ, to outward appearance, has made but little progress in this land ; but there is mercy vouchsafed sufficient to encourage me to pray ; and there is still cause for prayer. The Bettiah-walla and two others have been raised up to me ; with other hopeful appearances amongst the native women. I bless God for renewed health of body and vigour of mind ; and for somewhat of increasing patience and diligence in the work of the ministry. With respect to my resolutions, I find I have visited more than I wished to do ; but less than I might have done, and more than I hope to do for the future. I praise God that I am not so much ashamed of the Gospel of Christ as I have been ; and that T have been enabled to preach Jesus Christ from house to house,
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in some small degree ; but, I have done far less than I might have done : Yet, 0 Lord ; I ought to praise Thee for thy mercy : Thou hast wrought all my works in me ! I know I am a sinner ; but thy grace is sufficient for me, and by thy grace I am what I am. The native schools have refused books ; but I hope to establish a Christian school, and desire that my whole life, spirit, soul, and body, may be occupied in the work of the Lord/'
The quarterly report transmitted by Mr. Corrie to Mr. Brown, on the 4th of January, 1808, sup- plies us with an outline of the progress of religion at Chunar up to that date; and touches upon the great practical difficulty, inseparable from that loss of the means of subsistence, which converts from hea- thenism usually have to endure.
" Let us begin our correspondence with erecting an Ebe- nezer to our gracious Lord, who continues us in the land of the living, and gives us opportunities of obtaining a great nearness to His blissful presence, and a more exalted station among those who turn many to righteousness. I might well, in the review of the past year, dread the imputation of unprofitableness, but yet I perceive it a dishonour to the grace of our Redeemer, to disparage the smallest appearance of His grace in myself, or in others ; and though I am sure I must say, ' Lord, when saw I thee a stranger, &c./ I con- sider it my duty to credit the precious declaration spoken by our great Bishop, respecting himself and his S*a«:ovo<, ' Though Israel be not gathered, &c/ Is. xliii.
" Pursuing the plan suggested with so much propriety by our senior brother, I have to observe that since my last, some changes have taken place in our society, which seem upon the whole to have been for the better, as we have
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gained a captain of artillery, of great decorum of manners, both in public and private. Of our old members, I am persuaded that the seed of the word has put forth the < tender blade ' in the lady and gentleman I have before alluded to; whilst considerable alteration in the outward conduct of another gentleman is noticed ; but I fear, f one thing ' at least is lacking in him. By four out of the six families here, I am asked to say grace at dinner, which when I first arrived was unusual. I know not what I ought to think of this, knowing well that in Christ, nothing availeth but ' faith that worketh by love;' yet perhaps something is gained. The Lord help me to be more devoted to his glory, that I may not seem to countenance them in stopping short of the l new creation ! ' One person is often very contemptuous towards me, but finds no one to join him at present. Among the common Europeans little but dis- couragement appears : only one seems entirely from under the dominion of outward sin. He is the sergeant I have mentioned, and appears a subject of divine grace. Several are approvers, and attendants on public worship, but the sad abuse of the late holy festival has damped my hopes respecting them.
" The first Sunday in November, having prepared a moveable tabernacle, it was erected at the barracks, and divine service has been performed there every Sunday even- ing since. On the first few occasions forty or fifty attended, yesterday there were about twenty-five. These are, for the most part, very attentive, and a good deal of devotion ap- pears among them in making the responses, &c. About six, perhaps, attend divine service twice a day. At the hos- pital one man seems piously affected, another humble and resigned ; both these have been long ill and seem daily de- caying. One, the first time I spoke expressly to him, de- clared with much earnestness, that he believed he had never offended his Maker ; he now speaks a different language. One man, who was greatly alarmed during a fit of sickness,
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is, I fear, resting in a " form of godliness," though his out- ward conduct is decent, and he comes every Sunday evening to join in worship with me.
" At Benares, where I occasionally go, the pious merchant I have mentioned, appears much grown in ' grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, &c.' He reads the service of the Church of England and a sermon from some author, twice every Sunday and every Wednes- day evening, in a tent erected for that purpose. One Wed- nesday evening I officiated there among twenty-seven, who heard the word with much attention. One artillery-man of the lately arrived party, the merchant speaks of as hopeful. But I find that last week a restraint was laid upon the artillerymen from attending : I trust it will soon be removed.
" Among the Company's servants there, one known as a proficient in Hindoo literature, has discovered himself well acquainted with evangelical principles. Another Company's servant seems to me one of the Lord's secret ones. I trust there is among us ' as the gleaning grapes when the vintage is done,' one or two.
" But what I have to say on personal experience will cast further light on the religious state of our society, or rather, it will cast a shade on the prospect. Notwithstanding these agreeable particulars already presented, there is little further outward acknowledgment of God among us ; there appears as yet no disposition to speak and act openly as the dependent creatures and avowed subjects of the Most High ; so that, except now and then in private, I cannot give vent to those feelings which I find it my duty and happiness to cherish. On this account much of my religious exercises pass without that delight in God which His love and mercy demand ; and my experience in general is that of the Psalmist, when he said, ' my heart breaketh for the longing &c; ' yet our state before God depends in no respect on frames and feelings ; and though miserably defective still in every point, some greater degree of boldness for Christ in public, and some-
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thing of resignation to labour in his vineyard though no fruit should appear, I acknowledge as the work of his free Spirit, by whom I trust to be upheld unto the end. My preaching since my last, has been on the following among other subjects, ( God is not a man, &c/ (Numb, xxiii. 19.) ' In this was manifested, &c/ (1 John iv. 19.) ' How shall we escape, &c/ (Heb. ii. 3.)
" The state of the natives here has lately attracted much of my notice. From their long intercourse with Europeans, native habits are much laid aside. They are generally greatly addicted to drunkenness, and are proverbially dis- solute. They are, in consequence, very little awed by the European Christians. I am assured that they are usually ready to enter into personal contest with any of the Euro- pean invalids, who may attempt to lord it over them ; and except from those who eat the salt of the settlement, none of us have many tokens of respect paid us. In the four native schools, there are at present seventy-five scholars ; those mentioned as reading books have left the schools from some cause or other, and no more books have been received.
" The native women connected with the Europeans, have assembled on Tuesday evenings in the Fort, and on Friday evenings at the barracks. The usual numbers at both places is from ten to sixteen. For these much of my time has been taken up in translations, &c. Yesterday, in the fort, a congregation of nineteen attended prayers in Hindoostanee. I used the translation our dear brother Martyn favoured me with, excepting a few words altered to the dialect of this part of the country. On these occasions the native Christ- ian, I before mentioned, is of the greatest service. He has acquired a tolerably accurate idea of the plan of salvation, and enlarges, with much evident feeling, on the heads I suggest from the portion of Scripture before us. He offici- ates as clerk in the Hindoostanee congregation, and yester- day read the lessons, and explained and applied them as I suggested to him. The effect of his exhortations lasts.
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This man is afflicted with an asthma, which lays him up now and then; but the eagerness with which he returns to teaching the native women, indicates, I trust, his heart to be right with God. Some differences took place in his family some time since, which disturbed me a good deal ; but no fault has appeared in him. In a late fit of illness, I found he had a book of prayers, containing addresses to angels, &c. Several of the women have learned from him the Ten Com- mandments, the Lord's Prayer and the Creed ; and it ex- cited a gleam of holy joy yesterday to hear several repeating these after me, and also whispering some of the responses. This reminds me of a school in which an European teaches ten children for me^ some of them orphans, and some who are not eligible to the school in Calcutta. Since the establish- ment of evening worship, one of these children has repeated the Church catechism and some questions of Scripture History, with an accuracy rather surprising considering their years. These also join in the responses and in singing the Psalms, and increase the ( Hosanna to the Son of David/
" Two youths, one the son of the native teacher, are on my premises, and read twice a day in the Hindoostanee gos- pel. One discovers no capacity whatever, nor does the word seem to affect him in the least. He has made considerable proficiency in the knowledge of the letters and reads the gospel without much difficulty, but can seldom at the end of a verse, tell the contents of it. The other discovers consi- derable quickness of apprehension, and gains knowledge readily ; but as yet gives no evidence of any heart-work begun. Him I intend, if it please God, to appoint teacher of a school, in a short time. I know now of six children, the offspring of native Christians, whom I wish him to in- struct ; two children now attend him.
" Of the women who were candidates for Baptism, one, it appears, is living in sin : and on my refusing to baptize her till the fruits of repentance [should appear] has given up seeking instruction. The other appears very sincere; she
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comes a considerable distance, into the Fort, twice a week (on Tuesdays and Sundays) and is herself, as far as I know, of unblemished life. But some circumstances connected with her daughter, has made me defer Baptism, which seems to af- flict her; and she promises to pursue whatever line of con- duct I may point out. The difficulty is in suggesting what these people are to do for an honest livelihood. I am already engaged in disbursements beyond what my pecuniary cir- cumstances point out as prudent ; and to tell them to trust in Providence whilst no means of subsistence appear, seems to savour too much of fatalism.
" Let me, therefore, conclude with proposing to the consi- deration of my brethren, The best mode of employing native Christians who may be destitute of subsistence ? And I think to ascertain this, it may be of service to enquire, What are the manufactures most engaged in at our different stations ? And, perhaps, a barter might be established among them- selves, without much of our personal interference, if commu- nications were opened between them ; which would certainly be desirable."
In a Letter to Mr. Buckworth, written a few days later than the preceding Keport, Mr. Corrie enters more into detail respecting his ministry among the hea- then, and the method of teaching employed by the native Christian of whom mention has so frequently been made.
" Your welcome letter of February last reached me Novem- ber 1st : and I sat down instantly to read and answer it ; and have filled three sheets of paper which would have been sent had opportunity offered ; and, from your affection for myself, would have amused you. I find on review, however, they are very unsatisfactory ; and must select from them a moderate-sized epistle. You rightly suspected that the cli-
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mate might affect my body, and by consequence my spirits also ; as some of my letters to you will shew ; but, thanks to the Lord our healer, I am as well, and have been for some time, as at any period in my life. Mary had told me of your presentation to D ; had it taken place before I left England, the pleasure of being a fellow-helper with you would probably have kept me there for life ; but He who knows what is best for us has ordered it otherwise ; and I am unspeakably content. At the same time, I little knew my own unsuitableness for the work I am engaged in ; yet ' hitherto hath the Lord helped me : ' and, though I groan under a sense of my shortcomings, He has not suffered me to go back from His sacred ways : and has, moreover, given of His Divine presence. These opportunities of writing call forth all my former feelings towards you ; and I am conscious, that though so widely separated, we are one in the Lord Christ. But I must refrain, and give you some account of matters here."
After having adverted to the fears of the Indian Government lest the animosity of the natives should be excited by any attempts to convert them to Chris- tianity, Mr. Corrie writes :
" I suppose we should be taken to task, were we to preach in the streets and highways : but other methods not less ef- fectual are to be used, and less likely to produce popular clamour. Natives themselves may and can be employed, with the greatest advantage, in Evangelizing their brethren, whilst the Minister superintends, and directs and encourages. I have great reason to be thankful, that the Lord has raised up a native Christian, born of Roman Catholic parents, who, from March last, has been daily with me ; and now, having acquired a sufficient knowledge of the way of salva- tion, is daily employed in instructing others ! A despised race, whom the Europeans have attached to themselves, hear
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him with great attention ; and some with evident profit. He is at present very ill ; but I trust the Lord will spare him to us, when more extensive plans will be engaged in.
" At present, there are seventy-five children in my native schools learning to read, which will tend to undermine the superstructure whose basis is ignorance ; and I purpose es- tablishing a school for [native] Christian children, of whom I know now of six, and shall find more. The bulk of the people are wretchedly poor from their indolent habits, which never let them lay up for a rainy day. When a Mahome- dan gets a little money, he usually spends it in debauchery ; and a Hindoo works no more till it is gone. This is the character of the people : hence, beggars innumerable swarm ; many truly wretched objects, who often make one retire with overflowing eyes, unable to supply them all. Of the Europeans, several are very attentive; and my labour is evidently not in vain, though I know only of one or two I can speak of with good hope. Of my three dear young friends, two are going on delightfully : one of these has lately been with a detachment against a native prince who refused his tribute, and saw some hot work : twelve of his brother officers fell on the occasion, but he received only a slight wound in the knee : the dear lad is much grown in spirituality since then ; and is not without trials of ' cruel mockings : ' he writes to me once a week, and I endeavour, by writing constantly to him, to encourage him to stand fast. Away from the means of grace, and without a single com- panion like-minded, he plainly stands by faith. The other at Madras goes on well, and has the ' communion of saints' to resort to. The third, a most affectionate, sensible youth, is, I fear, led captive ; though not, I think, with his will. Oh ! my heart yearns over them, in consideration of the many, many obstacles in their way ! The demon that op- presses Europeans in thia land, ' goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.' Example, opportunity, solicitation allure them to the paths of death ; and few, alas, return from
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them ! Those I allude to, are from eighteen to twenty or thereabouts ; from which you will see at once the danger they are in."
On the subject of missions Mr. Corrie adds : " The nature of missions seems little understood, even by those whose hearts the Lord inclines for the work, till they come into it. Mr. Cecil's sermon, before the Church of England Missionary society,* of which I have only seen extracts, is, I think, an excellent discourse on this subject. The work requires the patience of a Job, with the prudence of an Apostle : and 0, the self-denial required ! How little I am fit for the work, my brother well knows ; yet here, by the good providence of God, I am well content, and determined to count not even ' life dear ' so that I may make ' full proof of my ministry/ and ' finish my course with joy/ I could fill sheets with conversations respecting religion, which I have had most days, with some one or other of the natives. Their duplicity makes it, beyond measure, difficult to know when they are convinced, or even silenced. The least appearance of impatience on my part makes them consider me angry ; and not a word more will they argue, but yield every thing. I may say to you, the friend of my bosom, that my natural impatience is somewhat abated ; and I am not conscious of having offended in this way often ; but even what is the effect of eagerness and zeal, is con- strued into a passion, by a people whose highest perfection consists in restraining the feelings, and whose despotic go- vernment rendered disguise necessary to existence and peace.
" The same submissive disposition in the people makes it difficult to know when I am understood ; as they do not either acknowledge their ignorance or ask explanation. The dialects of the different provinces are so different as to make
* Printed in the Proceedings of that Society, vol. i. p. 179, and seq.
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them nearly different languages. . . Among the learned and the Mahomedaus, much Persian and Arabic is intro- duced into their language, which to the Hindoo is unintel- ligible ; and, it is now well known that a person who learns the language from books only, will not be understood by the bulk of the people. This I am aware of, and ask ques- tions from the women above-mentioned ; when I often find the meaning has been imperfectly, or not at all understood ; which leads to fresh explanation. One specimen of our mode of proceeding, I have made a memorandum of, and which may amuse you : — After having read the first chapter of Ge- nesis, which I translated, I suggested to this native Christian to enlarge upon the following heads, which he did in this manner, ' Learn, first, the honour put upon man by God : He gave him dominion/ ' See/ continued he, ' the elephant ; one blow of his would be instant death, yet he goes here and there at man's word/ ' Observe the power of God : He commanded, and it was done, &c/ { Let a man try to create an ant, he can- not do it; let him try to make a hair, he cannot do it : yet look at the hills, &c, God made them ; and think not that He used labour : no, the word of His mouth was sufficient.' I sug- gested, ' How ought we then to fear this great God ! ' He proceeded, ' are you not afraid of your masters ; are you not fearful to offend them lest they should punish you ? ' This was so feeling an appeal that they answered, ' Yes, yes ! ' ' 0 then/ said he ' how ought you to fear an infinitely powerful God ! He is infinite in strength ; and, if you sin against Him, you deserve infinite punishment : and think how great punishment He will inflict ! ' One of them at this fell a weeping. I observed, ' See the goodness of God in providing such comforts and accommodation for man in this world/ He went on to speak of the greater love of God in providing a salvation for our souls, which he spoke of with much warmth ; the women hanging upon his words. These occasions are often productive of sweet sensations to my soul : whilst yet the want of positive evidence of grace in them
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[the people so instructed] generally makes me to go heavily. Most days are devoted to close study of the native languages : the Hindoostanee proper I can understand, though not to speak it with any fluency or accuracy : and I also begin to know a little Persian, which is a very agreeable study. I rise at day-break, breakfast between seven and eight, take a slight repast about one, and make my principal meal when evening sets in. Then my mind is usually too exhausted for study, and sweet would be the society of some with whom I could talk freely of what Christ did, and said, and suffered for us here below. For the want of such society, very little of the lively feeling I enjoyed in England enters into my experience : yet I am conscious of some more boldness for Christ, and fewer deviations from His holy ways than before ; for which I adore His free grace by which alone I stand. These expressions I owe to your affection, who will fear, perhaps, for me ; lest by any means the tempter gain the better of me. 0, that I could say this were never the case ! Yet, though I should justly be deemed a fool for thus boasting to others, yet I may call upon you to rejoice with me that I have obtained help from the Lord thus far, and have a hope that I shall never be ashamed.
From all that has passed, I see further proof that to preach nearly or quite Christianity, and live as the world lives, is the way to popularity : to live and preach so as to fancy to recommend Christianity to the carnal mind, is the way to be little esteemed : to live godly in Christ Jesus is the way to win souls, and to obtain friends, with persecution here, and with the certain expectation of glory hereafter. O Holy Ghost, write these truths with deep conviction on my mind ; and let my soul know nothing on earth but Jesus Christ and him crucified ! "
When it is considered that the labours of a native Teacher cannot but be of great importance, even in the most effective state of Missionary arrangements,
102 MEMOIRS' OP BISHOP CORRIE.
it will not excite surprise that in Mr. Corrie's circum- stances at Chunar, the illness of the Bettiah Christian should occasion him anxiety. Mr. C's journal, how- ever, affords pleasing evidence that the Bettiah- walla in his sickness, found consolation in that gospel which he seems to have been earnestly desirous of making known to his countrymen.
" Jan. 7th. I sent off to-day a copy of the Gospels, and of the Morning Prayer, and Ten Commandments, to Bet- tiah, at the request of a person who is said to be the Sirdar* of the Christians there, and of whom even the padras stand in awe : lie is represented, also, as understanding Persian,
Portuguese, and a little Latin. I dined with Captain M ;
after sitting silent for some time, I was induced by some re- marks of Major General , to enter into a long argument
in behalf of Christianity, as the