Second Section
(Unedited 1818 text)
By Edwin W. Dwight
MEMOIRS OF HENRY OBOOKIAH, A NATIVE OF OWHYHEE, AND A MEMBER OF THE FOREIGN MISSION SCHOOL; WHO DIED AT CORNWALL, CONNECTICUT FEBRUARY 17, 1818, AGED 26 YEARS
First published electronically on the observance of Hawai’i’s first Christian Heritage Week, February 1994 by Pa’a Studios
April 1. This evening my friend Thomas and myself conversed about what we would do first, at our return to our own country: and how we should begin to teach out poor brethren about, the religion of Jesus Christ, &c.: and many other kinds of conversation that we thought of. And we both thought that we must first go to the King; or else we must keep a school to educate the children, and get them to have some knowledge of the Scriptures, and then we must give to them some idea of God. But these thoughts seemed to be blind on some accounts-not knowing how to do better without God's direction. The most thought that come to my mind, was to leave all in the hand of the Almighty God; as he seeth fit. The means may easily be done by us, and all other duties which God commands, but to make others believe in this reality of religion, no one could do it, to open blind eyes of sinners, but God only. He is able "to bring the blind by a way that they know not, and he will lead them in paths which they have not known."
2. As I was just rising up this morning and looked out of my bed room's window, I saw the sun rising in the east, (Sabbath,) and I wondered that my life should be kept so safely during the night past, and that I was brought to see another day of the Son of man. As soon as I went to bed my eyes were wide open during the whole night. I thought how many unready lives were taken before the morning comes. This made my heart cry, Lord, prepare me, prepare me for death. I spent the greater part of the night in secret prayers in my bed, and found sweet communion with my God. "Commune with your own heart upon your bed and he still." O that the grace of God may be sufficient for me! Lord, fill my hungry soul with spiritual food.
3. This day I set apart for secret prayer, and the Lord was graciously with me, and has given me some spirit to pray. It seemed as if I could not enjoy myself better in any worldly conversations than I did in prayer. I can say as I trust, that the spirit of God has been with me this day. God appeared to be gracious and lovely. Holy thou art, O Lord God of Hosts! O Lord, look down with a pitying eye upon this thy servant, whom thou hast brought from a heathen land! Be gracious to all the rest of my heathen brethren who are now in this country. Do now, O Lord, hear my call. Let not the Lord remember former sins which were known to thee
7. This afternoon I attended the funeral of an aged person. Many people attended and many tears were shed upon almost every cheek, for the loss of their friend. But O weepers weep for yourselves, (he was a friend of Christ it is hoped) for he has gone in peace.
I thought with great astonishment how little idea we have of death and eternity. Who can stop the approaching of death? May the Lord teach me to know the number of my days! Oh! that the everlasting arm may raise my soul from deepest hell; and direct my step toward the peaceful shore of blessed Eternity!
9. To-day is my first year since I made, a profession of religion. I set apart this day for prayer, and returned thanks to God for his wonderful grace and kindness towards me as a lost sinner. Though how little have I done towards him! how little have I done for his glory! Shall I live to see the end of another year? Lord, increase my faith.
12. To-day the Lord turned me to look into my heart, to see whether there be any holiness in me. But I found nothing but "wounds and bruises and putrefying sores." I saw my sins were very great, and never were known before. I had seen my own sin before, but the Lord never shew me so much, as I recollect, to make the soul sink in deep sorrow for sin, as he did this day. But it was my own blindness too. When I considered my former life, and looked into it, nothing but a heavy bundle of sin was upon me. I pray the Lord that he may not remember my past sin. O may not the God of Isaac and Jacob hide from the tears of such dying sinner as I.
I enjoyed myself much this day in fasting, prayer, and supplication.
I have been thinking this day to know what is the state of man; whether they are pure from all sin: for last evening I had a dispute with a young man. He asked me whether I do believe that we sin by words, thoughts and deeds. I answered him Yes. Certainly we do, unless we take heed to our ways-as David speaks for himself in Ps. 39. "O mortal man," says he, "do we then always sin?" Yes, I answered. The Apostle speaks, "If we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves."
O how many ways that a creature can be deceived!
15. I attended a prayer meeting this afternoon and a number have been examined to be brought forward to the Church. I have thought a great deal this day about my unfaithfulness and barrenness since I made a profession of religion: how my wicked heart has turned away from God in a most evil and unkind manner. But when I considered that I sin against my Maker, I always feel sorry; and all sins which I commit raise my tears from my eyes: as I have this afternoon been weeping very deeply because of my sins. Many times I am apt to fall into sin; but if God hears my crying for forgiveness, I shall still live devoted to him. Is there any thing that we can be cleansed by from our sins but the blood of the Lamb of God? No, in no wise.
21. O what a solemn meeting today at the house of Dea. B. It was a serious and joyful time. It seemed to me that the Lord was with us. I took notice that almost every person in the room appeared very joyful. Many persons kept their heads downwards with tears on their faces. We had then neither sermon nor any discourse delivered, but many prayers were offered up for those who were rolling sin as a sweet morsel under their tongue. A number of pious men tried to speak, but they could not. For the fear of the Lord had fell upon them, that they could not finish their discourse, but to weep. O how myself felt then. I saw that it was the Lord's work, who hath power to make sinners feel, and to shew himself that He is God alone. O that the Lord may carry on his work!
May 5. This day I have attended the sacrament of the Lord's supper. I felt guilty of my unfruitfulness, and had but little faith in him whose blood is drink indeed and whose flesh is meat indeed. I could not help weeping whilst the minister addressed those who were to be admitted into the Church-warning them to be faithful. On account of this warning I could not put a stop to my weeping eye-For I felt that I had a stupid and cold heart, wanting of divine grace.
8. I have been reading this morning the history of pious women, and I was very much pleased to see and to know how Christians feel. Their employment every day was to address their heavenly Father in secret, and to read some portion of the holy Scriptures.
15. This day I took a walk for exercise at the distance of two or three miles. On my way home I met an aged man, unknown before, who I judged to be about sixty years of age. He was traveling on the same way that I was, and I thought in myself that I would take this opportunity to converse with him upon religious subjects: as it was my duty, (and as I have done with many other unacquainted persons before.) As we were walking, "What bad going is this!" said he, "I have never known such time as this." With this observation I spoke thus-Ought we not to be thankful to our Maker for such a season as this, as well as we do for the finest weather? "O yes, Sir, I think we ought to," says he, ...though I do not feel thankful as I ought." With this saying, I then asked him to know whether he as one that was born again of the Holy Spirit. To which he replied, "O I hope so; though I was one of the sheep that was almost gone, for ever lost, yet I hope that I am found." I asked him whether he ever met with any difficulty or trouble in his mind. He answered, "O yes, great deal; but when I meet with any trouble, I wish to be alone, and pray to God, and ask him for such comfort as I need. Before I was brought into light I thought many times that the religion of Jesus was hard thing to seek for-but it was nothing else but my own wicked heart. When I come to it in my own heart, I found no holiness at all, but all manners of evils are lodged in it."
Soon we parted from each other, and we both wished to be remembered in our prayers.
June 1. This morning I have been walking out for some secret duty. As I walked through the field alone, lo! I heard the sweet songs of many birds, singing among the branches; for it was a beautiful Sabbath morning. While I thus hearked, this part of a Psalm come into my soul very sweetly-
"Sweet is the mem'ry of thy grace,
My God, my heavenly King;
Let age to age thy righteousness,
In sounds of glory sing," &c.
I thought of Christians as soon as I heard these birds tuning their joyful songs around the tree. Christians as soon as they leave their fleshly songs, with their bodies, in the silent tomb, will be at rest beyond all pain, death, sorrow and trouble; and come around their King of glory, and tune their golden harps to Immanuel's praise. And then say one to another,
"Come let our voices join to raise,
A sacred song of solemn praise," &c.
16. This evening I attended some serious exercises of prayer, with a few young men of pious character. Five pious young men came to our room for this purpose. They appeared to be very much engaged in the cause of the great Redeemer. We spent our time in solemn prayer for two or three hours. I found comfort myself easy in every duty which I was commanded by my God to do.
23. I was visited this morning by a pious and good Rev. Mr. H. of L. who instructed me in a most affectionate and tender manner; and has given me some of the clearest views of Christian character, such as I needed.
I was intreated by this friend of Christ concerning my future happiness, and was warned to live above this world, with humble and tender heart. But O who can know my own unfruitfulness and vileness, but He who "searcheth the heart, and trieth the reins of the children of men." I felt in my own heart that I needed the teaching of all the people of God. Many times I have thought of my self being deceived, because many evil thoughts come into my mind and put me out of the right way; but in my secret prayers I have always found happy rest to my poor and immortal soul, as if I was in the right path. O that the Lord Jesus, who doth "bring the blind by a way that they know not," may be the director of such blind as I.
24. We have heard to-day much good news from every quarter of the country. A work of grace has been begun in many places, and there are hundreds of hopeful converts, or newly born by the influences of the Holy Spirit. O how great and how wonderful is the arm of the Lord! reaching forth his hand toward sinners, and kindly taking them in his bosom of love. But are there not many sinners yet in the gall of bitterness and in bonds of iniquity, rejecting the free offer of salvation? Are not many opposers yet set against the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? O when shall these never dying souls find rest! It is very strange to me that so many careless and stupid sinners never think or have any concern for the worth of their immortal souls. O Lord, I intreat Thee to look down with compassion upon such dying sinners as are here in this land of the Gospel light! O save them, O Lord God of Hosts, save them! Glorify the riches of thy free grace in making them the heirs of thy holy kingdom. O glorious Jesus, thou Son of the Most High, have mercy on the never dying souls of men. Thou canst do the helpless sinner good; for all homage, honour, glory, and worship are due to Thee; the true promised Messiah and Redeemer of the world. Thou canst work among sinners and none can hinder thee. O Lord save us or we perish. I am a sinner as well as other; I feel myself an unfruitful creature; and yet I choose the Lord Jesus for my everlasting portion. I have nothing of my own to recommend myself to his holy favour. All the present that I can make unto Jesus is myself. He seeks not mine, but me only.
25. Last evening I attended a prayer meeting, and enjoyed great comfort to my soul. I thought how Christians all agree in their feelings toward each other, in lovely manner. I once thought while we were in the room, in such a little circle, and enjoyed ourselves in conversing after the manner of the flesh, how much happiness will be found at the great court of the Almighty, when all the children of God are gathered together, from the East and the West, and are set down in the kingdom of Heaven. What a happy time will it be for Christians!
July 3. My health being weak I set out to walk, and at the place to which I came, I found a sick woman lying upon a sick bed. She had been in that case for eight years. When she heard of my being in the house, she wished to see me. I conversed with her concerning her case; and though she was weak in her body and mind, she could answer whatever question I put to her. I asked he whether she was willing to leave this world of sin, and to be present with her lovely Jesus. She replied, "O yes, O yes, I hope I shall reach that peaceful shore, where I shall have neither sickness nor pain, as I have now." Before I was about to leave her, she wished me to pray with her, and this was done. She took hold of my hand and begged me to remember her, thus-"O my friend, do not forger me in your prayers, and if I do not see you again in this life, I shall in better life than this."
17. 1 have just returned from a visit to my friends. As I was walking through the woods I came to a house which stood at some distance from the town. As soon as I was come near the house, I found an old grey-headed man, next to the road, hoeing corn. I saw he was very aged man, and I thought it was my duty to converse with him. I stood by the fence and asked him how he did. He answered, "Well." I asked him whether he was well within also. But he did not understand what I mean. (This old man was about ninety years of age, and had been living without hope and without God in the world.) Immediately I went to the old man, and spoke to him in a friendly manner, thus- My friend, said I to him, you are a stranger to me, and I unto you; and I see that your head is full of grey hairs, and no doubt your days will soon be over. "I know that," said the aged man, "so every one has got to be as I am." Well, said I, what do you think of the great day of judgment? are you ready for that day? "O, I don't know," said he, "I do sometimes think that I am too far off for that day." Why do you not now begin to make your peace with God, before death overtake you? said I to the old man; repent and believe in the Son of God. But the old man seemed to be very careless and stupid. I talked to him, but he kept hoeing his corn; and I followed him to the end of the field, pursuing my discourse. But he seemed to be unwilling to hear me any further, and I returned thanks to the Almighty God for the opportunity which I had with this poor old man, and bid him farewell.
Sabbath afternoon, August 5. To-day I felt more anxious for prayer than I ever did. After J returned from meeting, I entered in my retirement, where I always find comfort and joy in my secret prayer and supplication before the great Jehovah. I now wished to see my friend Thomas, who lived a mile apart from me, and I set out to go and meet together in prayer for our own good. I went and found him reading the Bible. I urged him to go up to his room with me and be there a little while; and we took a Bible and went tip. We spent some time together in prayer till the sun was down. "O how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." We both united in prayers, two of each. We cried to God for help, in the language of good old David, "Search us, O God, and know our hearts, and try us and know our thoughts, and see if there be any wicked way in us, and lead us in the way everlasting." May the Lord be pleased to lead us both in the right way, and not in the "way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." We cried to God further, that he would teach us his way, in order to walk in his truth; and to unite our hearts both to fear his holy name.
I told my friend Thomas how I felt that day, and how much I longed to be with him together in prayer for our poor countrymen, as well as for ourselves. We both wished to have our little meeting kept up until we should be separated far from each other. We wished to have no one know it, but to look to God whenever we both come together.
The Diary of Obookiah may not have been discontinued here. A considerable part of what has been transcribed was found upon detached pieces of paper; and other similar pieces may have been mislaid. The whole he had begun to copy, but had not completed it.
The following is a selection of passages of Scripture made by Obookiah while he lived at Canaan, the first letters of which spell his name. It is a specimen of his ingenuity as well as his acquaintance with the Scriptures.
"Ho! every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come, buy wine and milk without money and without price."-Isa. iv.
"Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." John iii. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord' Lord' shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."-Matt. vii.
"Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my Gospel."-2 Tim. ii.
"Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded."-Titus ii.
'O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together." Psalm xxxiv.
"But speak thou the things that become sound doctrine."-Titus ii.
"Only let your conversation be such as becometh the Gospel of Christ." Philip. i. "O that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men."-Psalm cvii.
"Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life." Prov. iv.
"I must work the works of Him that sent me while it is day: the night cometh in which no man can work."-John ix.
"And they went out and preached every where that men should repent." Mark vi.
"He that hath ears to hear, let him hear."-Matt. xi.
HENRY OBOOKIAH
This was found among his papers, and the original is in his own hand writing.
The following extracts are from his letters written whilst residing at Canaan.
"CANAAN, Dec. 1815.
"My dear Friend.
"Your letter I have received, dated the tenth of September. It was with great pleasure. I shall take your advice in the all-important things which belong to me to attend to as a professor of religion. I know that the eyes of the Lord are upon me day and night, and beholding all my wicked actions and motions in every thing which I do. O that the Lord would be my help! Am I yet in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity? I neither do justly, nor love mercy as much as I ought, nor walk humbly with my God.
"The work of grace in the town of S. is still going on very powerfully. By the last account which I have heard, about one hundred and forty are in a hopeful state. They are now rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God. And many others are enquiring the way to Zion, crying, 'Men and brethren, what shall we do?' In this place also, many are in deepest concern about their souls. O where have sinners been so long since they had discovered the name of the Saviour, who was crucified upon the cross, and yet they have not come to him until now? They have known their Master's will, but they have not done it. They are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge. O wretched sinners will you come to the foot of the cross at this very moment, and ask forgiveness of sins? Hark and hear the voice of him that knocketh at the door of every sinner's heart! "Behold I stand at the door," &c. Christ the Saviour is knocking, saying, "Open to me my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled, for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night." I cannot help weeping. My tears are running down for joy to hear and see sinners fiocking to the Almighty Jehovah. O that all sinners may come to Christ!
"Stop, poor sinners, stop and think,
Before you farther go!
Will you sport upon the brink
Of everlasting wo?"
"O that we may stop and think where we are, and upon what ground we are standing, whether it be holy or whether it be unholy, or whether it be our duty to do the will of God or not. We now live here upon this earth, and how long we shall live we know not. Death will soon overtake us, for we are not far from it. My dear friend, I entreat you to be much engaged in prayer for thoughtless and stupid sinners, both in this country as well as in other.
"I would thank you to present my humble respects to all your family. I hope I shall see them, though at present unknown to each other in the eternal world; if I do not in this present world. May God he gracious to you all. Remember me in your sweet sacrifice of prayer before out Heavenly Father.
Your affectionate friend."
The preceding letter was written to Dea. H. of Danby in the state of New-York; an elderly gentleman who had taken a very deep interest in the welfare of Obookiah, and had written to him a letter of advice soon after he made a profession of religion.
That which follows was addressed to Mr. E. B-, in the state of New York.
CANAAN, May 1816.
"Having received your most kind and affectionate letter a few days ago, it much satisfied me. Notwithstanding that you are ever so far from me, yet I expect to meet you at the bar of God. O how glad am I to hear from you Ephraim. I am glad to hear that your mind has been more engaged in regard to the subject of religion, than when we lived together. If it is so, my friend, that you have such thoughts in your mind, I urge you to be careful, for it is an awful thing to be deceived. Set your heart toward Christ, and in him you may find help. Our sins are very great and reach over our heads, and there is nothing which can make them smaller or stop them, but the precious blood of the Lamb of God, who has all power to take away sin from the world. The Lord Jesus expressed himself thus-"I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save."
"You mentioned in your letter that the religion of Jesus Christ is glorious privilege. O my friend, it is so. We can say or think that his religion is a very important thing, if any one should have it, but we are not willing to seek for it. If the Lord has been pleased to operate on your mind by the influences of his Holy Spirit, as you trust he has, I hope the Lord will still continue his work in you through life. But let me entreat you to put your whole trust in God; make him sure as your own friend, and above all, give yourself entirely into the hands of your Saviour; who came to seek and to save that which was lost. When you write to me let me know all about your feelings. I long to see you, my friend, and all your father's family. I remember all your father and mother's kindness while I was with them; though I am in fear that I do not feel thankful enough to God for it.
"If you should ever come to Connecticut do take some pains to find me where I am, for I long to see you with brotherly love.
"I would desire your solemn prayer before your heavenly Father for
Your affectionate friend."
To MR. E. W. OF TORRINGFORD
"August 5, 1816.
"My Dear Friend,
"I hope you will not think it strange that such an one as I should write to you; for I am full of concern for the souls of others. O that the Lord would direct you in the right path. May the Lord teach me what I ought to write this day. I have learned that your sickness is still continuing. But O, how is it with you now? Look now, my dear Elijah, and see whether you are prepared or unprepared, or whether you are fit to die or unfit-whether you are the Lord's or not. O my friend, consider how many are there who have been wheeled down to endless torments, in the chariots of earthly pleasures; while others have been whipped to Heaven by the rod of affliction. O how good had it been for some of them if they had never known the way of life by the crucified Saviour. We have great reason to tremble when the Holy Scripture teaches us that few shall the saved. Much more when it tells us, that of that rank of which we are, but few shall be saved: for it is written, "Many are called, but few chosen." I often think of you, my dear friend Elijah, since I heard of your sickness. You perhaps sometimes think about dying-and what must be your end-and how you have misimproved your best opportunities, &c. O what a dreadful thing it is to die in a sinful state! My friend, how do you expect to find joy and peace in Heaven if you should die in your sin? How have you neglected the free offer of salvation, which is offered to you "without money and without price! " Haste, O my poor friend, and get up out of your sleep of sin and death, and the Lord Jesus Christ will give you life, comfort, health and strength-For there is none but Christ can do a helpless sinner good. Now, therefore, my friend, haste to look to Christ with faith, and ask for mercy and forgiveness of your sin. I feel for you, my dear friend, for the worth of your poor and never dying soul. O don't refuse this lovely and welcome Saviour any longer:-the more you reject him, the more you grow worse; the more you hate him, the greater will be your condemnation. O poor Elijah, choose the meek and lowly Jesus for your everlasting portion. Consider the danger in which you now live upon the brink of everlasting woe. Your sickness, I fear, will take you away from the world into a solemn and silent grave. O Elijah, Elijah W. where are you? Are You willing to leave this world of sin and death and be at rest? Are you willing to die now? In time of sickness we ought to keep our hearts right towards God, in order to be cheerfully willing to die. For "death is harmless to the people of God."-The righteous hath hope in his death, but the wicked is driven away in his wickedness. Follow not, my dear friend, after the example of mankind, but after Christ's-make no kind of excuse, turn unto God and live. Be not offended because I have taken this opportunity to write to you in such a manner. Let all be taken into serious consideration. It cannot hurt you my earthly friend. And it may keep your heart from shrinking back to consider that death is necessary to fit you for the full enjoyment of God. Whether you are willing to die or not, there certainly is no other way to complete the happiness of your soul. The happiness of the eternal world of heaven commences immediately after death. Now can you, my dear Elijah, say, "I will arise and go to my Father and say, Father I have sinned," &c. O why are you so unwilling to accept the free offer of mercy? And why will you still shut Christ out of the door of your heart; when he still is knocking, and saying, "Open to me my sister, my love," &c. O poor friend of mine! l do not speak of your being poor in body, but your soul is poor: wanting of the bread of life. This is why I need to speak of your being poor: for without the love of God in the heart of a man, that man is poor.
"If you are a friend of Christ, be not afraid of death and Eternity; for death cannot hurt you, nor your soul. Why then are you afraid that your sickness is unto death? It you were to die in sin-if death were to reign over you 'as a tyrant-to feed upon you as a lion doth upon his prey'-if death were to you to be the prison of hell, then you might reasonably startle and shrink back from it, with horror and dismay. But if your sin has been blotted out of the Book of God's remembrance; or if the Saviour hath begun his good work in you, why should you be afraid of being taken away from the world? And why not bid welcome to the King of terrors? My dear Elijah, our lives are short, and they like the smoke of the fire, are hastening away." Well, if our days must fly,
"We'll keep their end in sight," &c.
"Remember, my dear Elijah, that I am not the teacher of the heart, nor the judge of it. The Lord Jesus is your teacher-He can make you feel. He can make the blind to see-and the lame to walk-and the sick to be healed-and above all, He can make you and I happy or miserable in Eternity. All what I have said to you, my friend, will be remembered in the day of God's wrath. You and I shall both render our account to that God who hath made us, at the Day of judgment, for what deeds we have done in the body. Whether we have done every thing right in the sight of Jehovah, or whether we have not. May the Lord God of Hosts bless you. May Jesus make you faithful unto death, and that you may have at last the crown of life in the eternal world of glory.
"You, O parents of Elijah, you have the means of doing good to your own souls-to improve your time in the service of God. Where then shalt you be after the returning of your bodies to the dust-when your bodies shall become food for the worms of the earth?
"Brothers and sisters of the sick man-Your days will soon be over; and the road upon which you are all riding towards Eternity soon will be ended. Remember, O my friends, that the eyes of the Lord are upon you all, beholding the evil and the good. Your souls are worth a thousand and million times more than such a world as this. Be careful lest they be lost in the snares and temptations of Satan: for they are many and ready to carry away your souls into darkness and despair. O that the Lord would smile upon you in pity and compassion, and save you from eternal death. Look up now, my friends, to Christ-which is your life."
The following letter was written to Mr. W. C. now a member of Yale College.
"CANAAN, Sept. 7, 1816.
"My dear Friend,
"Our interview yesterday was but short, and our short conversation with each other was sweet to my soul. You requested me to write to you, for which I am now taking my pen to begin our correspondence: not because I am destitute of companions here, but for our everlasting good. There is one of the best friends who is above all earthly friends; even Christ Jesus the Lord. But we are all by nature the greatest and strongest enemies to him. 'All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.' We are naturally opposers to God, and to the holiness of his nature, and unable to accept of his mercy which is offered to us "without money and without price."
"I have reason to bless Jesus Christ that he hath wonderfully turned my feet from the path that leadeth down to an endless woe. There is nothing more that I can do for him, for his great and wonderful work in the soul of such an one as I, than to be thankful for all which I now enjoy. But this is not all-'Give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.'-I hope that the God of all grace has been gracious to you, as he has to me. O that we both may rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory here and hereafter. The religion of Jesus which we now have embraced (as we hope we are passed from death unto life) is a strong helper of the soul, to help us on to the peaceful shore.
"I wish I could express my weak feelings to you, but alas! I cannot. It is a difficult thing to tell you that I love my Maker more than I do any thing else. Truly I do not love him enough. I have faith in him but a little-but I am sure I wish to love him more and serve him better than I now do. O what a stupid wretch and hard hearted sinner am I! Why should I have been spared so long, while many of my fellow mortals are gone over the other side of the gloomy graves; and I a- yet on this side of eternity. O where are those now who have gone before me? Remember, my dear friend, that we will soon return to the dust, and leave this world of perplexity and trouble, and all the useless pleasures in it, and be fore ever miserable, or happy in the presence of the King of glory. O how happy it will be for Christian souls to meet together and uniting their hearts in love at that time.
"When shall I reach that happy place,
And be for ever blest?
When shall I see my Father's face,
And in his bosom rest?"
"It is no matter however long or short the lives of Christians are, if their best moments are well improved, in order to meet their lovely Jesus in peace whenever they are called for. Let us live, my dear friend, as a stranger, and pilgrims on earth-let us both seek for a better country than this-let us be faithful and humble believers of Jesus. I think I can truly say to my Lord, Lord my body and soul are in thine hands, do with them according to thy holy will. Thy will be done and not mine. The happiness of this world is nothing but a dream. It wilt soon pass away as the wind that bloweth. We must give up all for Heaven, lest we perish at the presence of the judge. The best present that we ought to make to Christ, is to give our whole hearts to him- and not 'gold and frankincense and myrrh,' as wise men of the East did.
"Do you remember, my friend, those that are around you whose sins are unpardoned. Do pray for them. Remember my poor countrymen, who know not the way of life by a Redeemer. Do not forget to pray for your affectionate friend,"
HENRY OBOOKIAH
Toward the close of the year 1816 Henry went to Amherst in Massachusetts, for the purpose of accompanying the Rev, Mr. Perkins, an agent of the Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, in a tour through that section of the country, to solicit donations for the benefit of the Foreign Mission School. The success of the solicitations was greatly promoted by the presence of Obookiah. Contributions were highly liberal and often drawn from sources not before accustomed to yield any aid to purposes of charity.
The interest which he had excited towards himself personally is expressed in a letter from Mr. Perkins, written soon after his death. "He was much beloved," he says, "by all who knew him in this region. He had awakened a lively interest in his welfare among them; and his death has cast a gloom over them which will not soon be dispelled. His recall to the world of spirits is one of those deep things of Providence which we cannot fathom."
A letter since received from the same respected source, contains several facts and observations which illustrate his character, and evince the peculiar acceptableness and influence of his visit in that quarter.
"I have rarely, if ever," says Mr. Perkins, "seen a person who seemed to set so high a value on time as Obookiah. What others would call leisure hours, would be busy hours with him. When alone he was delighted in his literary studies. When in company improvement was his object-and if the conversation was not immediately interesting to him, he would take his Pocket Testament and read, or repair to his study and his books.
"At a little circle of friends one evening, he said to me in a whisper, 'Time is precious, here are a few souls going to eternity, 'tis a good opportunity to improve.' just as we were about to retire at the close of the evening, he addressed two youth in the room for a few minutes, on the subject of religion, with great apparent effect. Whether the alarm of conscience which he was instrumental of exciting, proved lasting or not, I have never known. So valuable was time in his estimation, that if he had passed a day or an hour unprofitably, he would speak of it with deep regret.
"His humility deserves our notice. One fact will illustrate this feature in his religious character.
"In visiting different towns, it was my practice to gratify the people by calling on Obookiah to address them on the subject of Christianity. He was always appropriate, solemn, and interesting. Many flattering remarks were frequently made to him on that account. But though this was calculated to foster pride and inspire him with unbecoming confidence, yet it actually produced the opposite-humility and self-distrust. A circumstance took place which justifies this observation.
"At a village of considerable magnitude, after the Missionary service had been performed, the Rev. Pastor of the Church appointed an evening meeting. just before the meeting, it was observed to Obookiah, that some remarks would be expected from him. He modestly declined. The subject was urged. He said, "I'm a poor heathen, I don't know enough to teach people who live in Christian land." Being under my care, he applied to me to excuse him from the service. I replied to him, that I believed it to be his duty. The people had contributed generously. They were anxious to hear him speak on the subject of religion. You have always succeeded well. And what you shall say may prove a savour of life to some soul. Soon after, as we were passing to the meeting-house, observing his extreme reluctance, I asked the Rev. Mr. B. to urge and encourage him. Many things were said to persuade him, but his reluctance appeared to be invincible. As we arrived at the door, he again fled to me for refuge. Said he, "Do excuse me-I can't say any thing-You can preach-it will do more good." I told him I could not, as the people would be greatly disappointed. But when I said this, such had been his anxiety, and such his manner of expressing his feelings, that tears instantly started in my eyes, and gladly would I have preached for his relief. When the proper time came, he was called upon to address the meeting. He deliberately rose and addressed the people with his usual propriety and seriousness. At the close of the service, I passed by his pew, and invited him to walk with me. He was bathed in tears. I did not hesitate about the cause. I tried much to soothe his feelings, but it was to no purpose. Mr. B. perceiving them, made an attempt to pacify him, but was unsuccessful. His soul seemed to refuse comfort. This was on our way to our lodgings. When we arrived at the house, I mentioned his feelings to the kind family where we were to lodge. Every expedient was tried to restore him to his wonted cheerfulness. But all our efforts were unavailing. After about an hour, one of the family took a seat near him, with a view to divert his mind. This attempt was successful. And the first sentence he uttered, was "I'm a poor unworthy sinner-I feel as though I was lost." His customary cheerfulness soon returned, and many in the little circle, who sat a long time sorrowing, had their sorrow turned into joy.
"The Bible was his best and constant companion. He always carried in his pocket a Testament, which was presented to him by a friend who is now a Missionary to the Heathen. At a certain time he went about ten miles to visit one of his countrymen. In changing his clothes, he left his Pocket Testament, On his return, he pleasantly said to me, "Blind man don't walk very safely without his staff.
Obookiah's visit to this part of the country was of essential service to the cause of Foreign Missions. It has silenced the weak but common objection against attempting to enlighten the Heathen, that they are too ignorant to be taught. This sentiment has prevented much exertion. It had a wicked origin. We have first enslaved our fellow-beings, then degraded them by every menial service, deprived them of the means of mental improvement, and almost of human intercourse; and because, under these circumstances, people of colour are devoid of knowledge, we have hastened to the irrational conclusion, that all the Heathen are a race of idiots. Adopting this conclusion multitudes are utterly opposed to making any attempt to turn them from darkness to light. Influenced by this opinion, groundless as it is, no reasonings, or arguments, or motives which can be offered, are of any avail. But the appearance of Obookiah has done much in this region, to wipe off this disgrace thrown upon the Heathen, and to remove the objection so often made. The proof he gave of talents as well as of piety, carried conviction to many that the Heathen had souls as well as we, and were capable of being enlightened and christianized. Acknowledgments to this effect have frequently been made to me; and now in the circle of his travels, there is no occasion to combat this objection.
Another effect produced by his visit to this region is, that it has roused the slumbering energies of those who have hitherto done nothing in the missionary cause. Many have become interested for the benighted Heathen, and satisfied that the conversion of them to Christianity is practicable. And though they have never before lifted a finger, or contributed a mite, have now been prevailed on to do something. In several instances dollars were handed me by persons who confessed that they had never done any thing before. This is an effect produced which is not of a transient nature, but permanent. A feeling in the cause of missions has been excited which will not soon subside.
His visit has moreover enkindled a spirit of prayer and benevolence in the bosoms of God's children, which was very much needed. Coldness and a circumscribed charity were too apparent. Especially were these visible with respect to the Heathen. But now there is evidently an increase of fervency and holy wrestlings in the addresses of Christians to the throne of Grace. They intercede for the unevangelized nations as though it was their hearts' desire that they might be saved. Their benevolent efforts are more numerous, and more liberal. They not only exert themselves in this glorious cause, but they use their influence to induce others to come and do likewise. They refer them to Obookiah as an instance of the propriety and practicability of missionary exertion. While this instance encourages their own efforts, it greatly emboldens them in urging upon others the necessity and expediency of constant exertion in the cause of the Heathen.
Such have been the effects of Obookiah's tour in this region. And since such are the effects, and such was his character, it is not surprising that his death is so much lamented. Many flattering hopes were excited in the breasts of his friends here, but a righteous Providence has seen fit to blast them-But we have a foundation for our hopes that cannot be shaken. On this we may rest the heathen cause and feel secure, while human means and promising agents are swept away.
The following letter was written by Obookiah whilst at Amherst, to his companions at South Farms, (Litchfield.)
AMHERST, Jan. 1, 1817.
"My dear Brethern.
"I long to see you all. You may perhaps be glad to hear from me, and to know how I am. I hope you are doing well, both in your studies, and your religious exercises of the morning and the evening, which is the duty of prayer.
I have seen one of our own countrymen at Enfield, about nine miles from this place. He has been in that place for ten years, and two years at Boston. Thus, he continued in this country just twelve years. He did come from Owhyhee and also his native place was Koihi, (well known such place.) From that place Capt. John took him on board the ship, and brought him over here, when he was not but fourteen years of age. His native name was Nahlemah-hownah. Since I saw him I could converse with him but little, for he has lost the greatest part of our language. But he could recollect the names of many things, as far as he was able to describe them to me. While I was with him he could not keep away his eyes from me for wonder and gladness, to see such a one who come from his own country. I staid with him two days at Enfield not long since. I spended the whole of my time with him while I was there. The first that I did, I took him by my side, to converse with him upon the serious subjects. By his own words I judged him to be as one who was willing to accept of the free offer of mercy, though I fear he may in a time of temptation fall away, and all that which is sown in the heart. O my dear brethren and friends, he needed your prayers. Pray for him, that he may be brought to see the goodness of the Lord, and that he may be faithful to his own soul. Do not delay your prayers to the Almighty God for such an one, that is very dear to you. He now feels as though he was one of the greatest sinners that ever lived. Do you not all feel anxious for the soul of your own countryman, here now ill this country? O that he may devote himself to the service of his Creator! I observed many times while I prayed with him, he would deeply cry with such a dismal gloomy, as if the wrath of the Almighty was upon him. I have heard last Sabbath noon, by a man who was well known to him, that this young man becomes more thoughtful ever since I come away. If this be the case, I would humbly beg at the mercy seat for your prayers, that they may not be hindered. I shall see him again before a long time. He longs to see you."
May God be with you all.
This youth is now a member of the Foreign Mission School, and exhibits hopeful evidence of piety. The impressions made by the conversation of Obookiah were never lost.
Henry returned from Amherst in April to South Farms. Here he remained with his countrymen, until the first of May; when the school was removed to Cornwall, the place of its permanent location.
He now had his mind bent upon becoming prepared, as soon as practicable, to preach the Gospel. He paid particular attention to preaching, and made many remarks upon the subjects of sermons, and the manner of preaching them.
Some observations upon a common defect in preaching are well recollected. He complained of the practice of those ministers, who used such language in their sermons as was unintelligible to most of their hearts. Ministers, he said, preached to persons of every description; almost all were ignorant, very few, had learning, and if they preach to all the people, they ought to preach so that all can understand. They ought to use plain language. If not, he said, "as well might preach in unknown tongue every word. he thought, should be plain, for 'people,' said he, can't carry dictionary to meeting."
As Obookiah, at the time of his entrance into the school at Cornwall, had arrived at an age of considerable maturity, it may be proper that a more particular description should now be given of his person and character.
He was considerably above the ordinary size; but little less than six feet in height, and in his limbs and body proportionally large. His form, which at sixteen was awkward and unshapen, had become erect, graceful, and dignified. His countenance had lost every mark of dullness; and was, in an unusual degree, sprightly and intelligent. His features were strongly marked. They were expressive of a sound and penetrating mind. He had a piercing eye, a prominent Roman nose, and a projecting chin.
His complexion was olive, varied equally from the blackness of the African, and the redness of the Indian. His hair was black, worn short, and dressed after the manner of the Americans.
In his disposition he was amiable and affectionate. His temper was mild. Passion was not easily excited, nor long retained. Revenge, or resentment, it is presumed, was never known to be cherished in his heart.
He loved his friends, and was grateful for the favours which he received from them. In his journal and letters are found frequent expressions of affection and gratitude to those who had been his benefactors. To families in which he had lived, or to individuals who had been his particular patrons, he felt an ardent attachment. One of the latter, who had been separated from him for a considerable time, he met with great delight; and after the first customary salutations, said to him, "I want to see you great while: you don't know how you seem to me: you seem like father, mother, brother, all."
In his understanding, Obookiah excelled ordinary young men. His mind was not of a common cast. lt was such that, with proper culture, it might have become a mind of the first order. Its distinguishing traits were sound common sense, keen discernment, and an inquisitiveness or enterprize which disposed him to look as far as his mind could reach into every subject that was presented to his attention.
By his good sense he was accustomed to view subjects of every kind in their proper light; to see things as they are. He seldom misconceived or misjudged. By his companions his counsel was sought, and regarded as decisive. He had that clear sense of propriety with regard to his own conduct anti the conduct of others, which always commands the respect or excites the fear of those who behold it. Had he been disposed to cultivate a talent for this purpose, he would have become one of the severest of critics upon the manners and conduct of those around him.
Few persons have a deeper insight into the characters of men, or have the power of forming a more just estimate of them, by their words and actions, than he had. Few are more capable of perceiving the exact import of language. or are less liable to be deceived as to its real meaning, by a designed ambiguity of terms.
His inquisitiveness existed in relation to all subjects of interest; and disposed him to make himself acquainted with every thing that was known by others and to discover whatever was within his reach. This trait was exhibited, especially, in his character as a scholar.
His inquisitive mind was not satisfied with pursuing the usual round of study, but he was disposed to understand critically every branch of knowledge to which he attended. For this reason, his progress in his studies was not rapid-but as a scholar he was industrious, ingenious and thorough. His mind was also inventive. After having acquired some slight knowledge of the English language in its grammatical construction, he entered upon the project of reducing to system his own native language. As it was not a written language, but lay in its chaotic state, every thing was to be done. With some assistance he had made considerable progress towards completing a Grammar, a Dictionary, and a Spelling-Book.
He had also translated into his native language the whole of the book of Genesis.
These specimens of his industry and ingenuity, when seen, administer severe reproof to the sloth and dullness of most persons of much greater age, and of advantages far superior to his own.* In accomplishing this labour, Obookiah received the assistance of the Rev. Mr. F. now Professor of Divinity in Yale College. He had some assistance also from others. The manuscripts however, are all in his own hand writing; and considered merely as proofs of application, are greatly to the credit of the industry and enterprise of one so young, and uninstructed. They could have cost him no less than the constant labour of many months.
These manuscripts, though now imperfect, will afford much aid to future Translators and Missionaries.
When Obookiah became a member of the Foreign Mission School, he had attended to all the common branches of English education. In reading, writing, and spelling, he was perhaps as perfect as most young men of our own country, of the same age and with common opportunities. He wrote a legible manly hand, and had acquired the habit of writing with considerable rapidity. He had at this time studied the English Grammar so far as to be able to parse most sentences with readiness. He understood the important rules in common Arithmetic, and had obtained considerable knowledge of Geography. He had studied also one book of Euclid's Elements of Geometry, and of his own accord, without a regular instructor, had acquired such knowledge of the Hebrew, that he had been able to read several chapters in the Hebrew Bible, and had translated a few passages into his native language. He had a peculiar relish for the Hebrew language, and from its resemblance to his own, acquired it with great facility.*
*In consequence of this resemblance in the structure of the two languages, Obookiah found it much less difficult to translate the Hebrew, than the English, into his native tongue.
The winter before he came to the school he commenced the study of Latin. This, he pursued principally after he became a member of the Institution.
In his manners, Obookiah was habitually grave and reserved. In the presence of his friends however his conversation was often sprightly, and rendered particularly entertaining by a fondness for humor, for which he was distinguished. This he oftener exhibited by a quick perception and relish for it in others, than by actually displaying it in himself. Yet he sometimes gave evidence in his own remarks, of possessing no small degree of genuine wit. When conversing with his companions in their native language, he frequently afforded them much amusement by the pleasant and humorous cast of his conversation.
The customary deportment of Obookiah however was serious, and dignity strikingly characterized his manners. Few young men, it is presumed, command so much respect from persons of every age and character. Notwithstanding the familiarity which he used with his companions, he maintained an influence over them, becoming the relation of an elder brother, or even that of a respected parent. In his intercourse with them the dignity of his character was peculiarly visible. A motion of his head often made known to them his will, and obtained the compliance which he desired.
His manners had become in a considerable degree refined. A gentleman of respectability who visited Cornwall, and had a particular interview with him, observed, that he had met with but few persons of any country, more gentlemanly in their manners. or intelligent and interesting in their conversation.
Obookiah was a decided and consistent Christian. His conduct was habitually under the influence of principles of piety. He manifested a strong interest in the general prosperity of religion, and expressed in his conversation as well as his letters and diary, ardent desires for the salvation of his fellow-men; and especially of his countrymen, for whom he fervently prayed, and in whose behalf he often requested the earnest prayers of his friends.
In his writings satisfactory evidence is furnished of his own personal experience of the power of divine grace. In these may be seen, his convictions concerning the character of his unrenewed heart; his views of the grace and glory of the Saviour; his entire reliance upon the merits of Christ for justification, and the employments and duties in which he found his only happiness through the whole course of his Christian life.
Beside this evidence, and that which was furnished by his exemplary conduct, the following facts will afford additional proof of his ardent piety.
While a member of the Institution at Cornwall, he was in the habit of attending a weekly meeting with his companions on Saturday evening; in which, in addition to the usual exercises of a religious meeting, he questioned them individually concerning the state of their minds, and addressed to them such observations as the particular situation of each seemed to demand. Others in a few instances have been present, and have been greatly surprised both at the ability which he possessed of eliciting the feelings of his companions, and at the pertinency and wisdom of his remarks.
He once observed to a friend, whilst in health, "I have many times so much enjoyment in the night I cannot sleep."
At another time, "When I have done wrong. I am always sorry-I am so sorry!" He excelled and delighted in prayer. In a letter from the Rev. Mr. Perkins, who often witnessed his performance of his duty in public assemblies, and had also a favourable opportunity of becoming acquainted with his secret devotions, it is observed, "Prayer seemed to be his daily and nightly business: in this duty he not only appeared to take great delight, but he was pertinent, copious, and fervent. It was almost impossible to hear him pray and not be drawn into a devotional frame. I have repeatedly witnessed great numbers in a meeting melted into weeping, and in one instance the greater part of the assembly, and several sobbing, while he stood before the throne of God, filling his mouth with arguments and pleading for Christian and Heathen nations.
"He remarked to me one morning as we were journeying, that the night previous he had spent chiefly in prayer for a youth who happened to reside in the family where we had been kindly entertained."
He was once requested by a clergyman to attend a religious meeting with him, and make such observations as he thought proper to the people. Previously to the hour appointed for the meeting, he proposed to the minister that they should retire, and spent a short time in supplicating the blessing of God upon the duties they were about to perform.
Obookiah considered it as his duty, and made it his habitual practice, to converse, as he had opportunity, with persons whom he supposed to be destitute of grace, and urge upon them the necessity of immediate repentance. In several instances his conversation has made impressions which have terminated in an apparent conversion of the soul to God.
After Henry's return from Massachusetts he maintained a correspondence with several persons of respectability, residing in the different parts of the country which he had visited. A very few only of his letters have been obtained; and parts of these are of so local and private a nature as to prevent their being inserted with propriety in this volume.
Extracts from two of them will follow. The first was addressed to S. W. Esq. of Greenfield.
CORNWALL, June 16, 1817.
"My dear Sir,
"Again I take my pen to embrace this opportunity in writing- Indeed, on this very day I received a most affectionate letter; and when I come to unseal it, lo! it was from my dear beloved friend Mr. S. W.! How, or what an answer can I give for it? My dear friend, I received your letter with a thankful heart. I rejoice to hear that you have still a lively thought concerning the great things of eternity. O that our thoughts and hearts may be united together in the fear of God, and in love of the Lord Jesus-whom you spoke well of. Indeed, my deareset friend, we are in a great debt, both to God and to his Son Jesus Christ. We have owed them ten thousands of talents! and alas! how would we repay for all? Notwithstanding the greatness of our due to God for all his goodness and kindness towards us, yet we can repay it, by giving up ourselves to him: for he does not wish for ours, but us: for thus it is written, 'My son give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.' Your observations which you observed in this your letter, are just as the thoughts of a true and humble believer in God-and as one that fears God. Surely it is as you say, that the supreme love and affection must we give to him, who is the Lord over all and blessed for ever. Pray that these thoughts may not be mislaid in our hearts.
"Since I received your letter, my companions had the curiosity for knowing the person from whom the letter was sent. I told them from one of my friends at the place where I was kindly treated by them. They were very much pleased with the letter-supposed that you was a friend of Christ, and a true believer in God, by what you spoke well, both of Christ and his character. To whom I answered that I had a strong love for you, and hope that you may be a fellow traveller through the journey of this wilderness world. O that we both may meet in the presence of God in the eternal world above, where sin will never enter there. Let us not neglect the duty which we owe to God to love him with our hearts, souls and strength-and let us pray without ceasing,
"With this I must leave you, my dear friend, in the hand of God. Look to him to receive instruction and to know his holy character."
The following letter was written to A. S. Esq. of Amherst, dated
CORNWALL, August 15, 1817.
"My Dear Friend,
"Your letter of late gave me a great satisfaction. And since I have received it, I do now think that I was in a fault for not giving you an answer for it sooner; but be so kind as excuse me. You know not what joy and pleasure I had since I received your letter. O what happy news! It gives me a suitable joy to hear that the Lord has visited Amherst once more, with the influences of his Holy Spirit, and that he has already plucked as brands from the burning, some of those who once had been destitute of the Grace of God, and yet are now bowing down to the sceptre of King Jesus. O that the professed followers of the meek and lowly Jesus, be more and more lively in this most glorious work of our blessed Redeemer. Let every Christian be more and more deep sensible that the glory of every good work here below must come from God; as we read that he is the giver of every good gift, and every perfect gift is from above. We cannot expect to see a single soul coming out of the kingdom of Satan, into the kingdom of Christ, unless we see one or more faithful and humble Christians, running forward in spirit without any least of doubt, nor fail from doing whatever duty God required of them. O let us all entreat of the Lord that he would show unto us of his holy character a perfection, that we may he able to love and to serve him more and far better than we now do. Let us have a more realizing sense of our ingratitude and unfruitfulness in the eyes of the all-seeing God; let us be faithful in our duty, and may the great grace of God be sufficient for us all.
"I have not heard any news since I came away from Amherst. The only information that I can give is the present situation of this Institution, under which we are placed. Our school is going on very regularly, and the scholars are making some progress in their studies. One of our members is become a born in Christ, since he has been here, and I trust there is no small degree of happiness. He is now rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God. O that the Lord would be pleased to bless this school. I humbly beg of your prayers for this school, that each member of it may become a member of the household of God. Please remember me to Mr. and Mrs. P. and family. Tell Mr. P. that I shall write to him as soon as I can, but I dare not make any promise to set a time when.
Yours,
H. OBOOKIAH.
About the commencement of the year 1818, Obookiah became seriously indisposed, and was obliged wholly to abandon his studies. A physician was called, and speedy attention paid to his complaints. It was soon found that his disease was the typhus fever; and a thorough course of medicine was commenced, which after one or two weeks appeared to check the progress of the disorder, and comfort expectations were entertained of his recovery. Hope continued to be cherished until it became evident that his strength was wasting, and that his constitution, naturally strong, was giving way to the violence of the disease, which had taken fast hold of him, and had not been essentially removed. Notwithstanding the unremitted care and the skill of his attending physician, and the counsel of others called to consult with him, the kindest and most judicious attentions of the family into which he had fallen, and the universal solicitude of his surrounding friends, he continued to decline, until the night of the 17th of February; when his happy spirit was released, and his joyful anticipations realized, that he should soon reach his heavenly Father's house.
In this last lingering sickness, the Christian character of Obookiah was advantageously exhibited. His patience, cheerfulness, resignation to the will of God, gratitude for the kindness of his friends, and benevolence, were particular subjects of notice and conversation to those who attended him during this interesting period. His physician said of him that "he was the first patient whom he had ever attended through a long course of fever, that had not in some instances manifested a greater or less degree of peevishness and impatience."
Mrs. S. in whose family he was confined, and who devoted her attention exclusively to the care of him, observed,. that "this had been one of the happiest and most profitable periods of her life-that she had been more than rewarded for her cafes and watchings by day and night, in being permitted to witness his excellent example, and to hear his godly conversation.
By his friend a part of his observations and answers, particularly within a few of the last days of his sickness, were committed to writing; and are as follows:
To one of his countrymen, as he entered the room in the morning, after he had passed a night of suffering, he said, "I almost died last night. It is a good thing to be sick, S-, we must all die-and 'tis no matter where we are." Being asked by another, "Are you afraid to die?" he answered, "No, I am not." A friend said to him, "I am sorry to find you so very sick"-he replied, "Let God do as he pleases."
Mrs. S. frequently inquired of him if he would hear a few verses in the Bible. "O yes!" was his answer, "'tis good"-and after hearing, he would turn his eyes to Heaven, apparently in prayer. After a season of great distress, he broke out in an audible voice, and said, "If we put our trust in God, we need not fear." Frequently, when free from pain, he enquired for some one to pray with him; but often before he could be gratified, his pains returned, and he forgot his request. The person whom he most frequently called upon to pray with him was his friend Thomas. They often prayed together, alone: as they had done for years. In the language of his female friend, "Their souls appeared to knit together like those of David and Jonathan. Henry always appeared composed and apparently very happy, after a season of prayer with Thomas. In a season of fainting I left the room for a moment, to get some water, returned and found them weeping in great distress supposing the time of separation had now come." Upon his enquiring for the Doctor, to who he appeared greatly attached, Mrs. S. said to him, "Henry, do you depend on your physician?" "Oh! You don't know," said he, "how much I depend on the great Physician of the soul." He enquired, "Does the Doctor say I shall get well?" It was answered, "He thinks it is uncertain:" to which he said, "God will do what is right-God will take care of me." He observed to Mrs. S. "It is a fine pleasant morning." She said to him, "You are glad to see the light of the morning, after a dark distressing night." He replied, "Oh, some light in the night-some light of God."
"After a season of distress for two hours, he appeared perfectly happy -he looked out of the window-his eyes appeared fixed on some delightful object. I enquired of him, "Of what are you thinking, Henry?" "Oh! I can't tell you all," said he, "Of Jesus Christ."
After sleeping for some time, he prayed very fervently, in these words, "O Lord, have mercy on my soul-Thou knowest all my secret sins-Save me for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour-Amen."
He said to one of his countrymen, who had been a faithful nurse to him, "I must eat or I can't live"-and then enquired of him with anxiety, "Have you eat breakfast, W-? How thankful you ought to be that you have strength, and can eat." Soon he raised his hands and said, "Oh! how I want to see Owhyhee! But I think I never shall-God will do right-he knows what is best"-and burst into a flood of tears. "W-, if you live to go home, remember me to my uncle."
To dear H. he said, "I am thinking most of the time, how good God is-how kind to me." His companions were mentioned. He said, "They are all very good; they have done a great deal for me. But they must be good for themselves too."
"He appeared very affectionate to all, especially his countrymen. He insisted on some one of them being with him continually; would call very earnestly for them if they were out of his sight; and would be satisfied only with this, that they were gone to eat or to rest." To one of them he said, "I thank you for all you have done for me; you have done a great deal; but you will not have to wait on me much more, I shall not live." To another, "My dear friend S-, you have been very kind to me; I think of you often; I thank you; but I must die G-, and so must you. Think of God G-, never fail." To another, "You must stay; perhaps I finish off this forenoon. How much God has done for me and for you!"
The day before he died, "after a distressing night, and a bewildered state of mind, he appeared to have his reason perfectly, and requested that his countrymen might be called." After they came in he enquired several times for one of them who was absent, and for whom he had no hope; and said, "I have not seen him much-I shan't see him-I want to talk to him." When the rest had seated themselves around his bed, he addressed them most feelingly in his native language, as long as his strength would permit. As much of the address as could be recollected, was afterwards written in English by one of his countrymen; and was essentially as follows:
" My dear countrymen, I wish to say something to you all-you have been very kind to me-I feel my obligation to you-I thank you, And now, my dear friends, I must beseech you to remember that you have got to follow me. Above all things, make your peace with God-you must make Christ your friend-you are in a strange land-you have no father-no mother to take care of you when you are sick-but God will be your friend if you put your trust in him-He has raised up friends here, for you and for me-I have strong faith in God-I am willing to die when the voice of my Saviour call me hence-I am willing, if God design to take me. But I cannot leave you without calling upon the mercy of God to sanctify your souls and fit you for Heaven. When we meet there we shall part no more. Remember, my friends, that you are poor-it is by the mercy of God that you have comfortable clothes, and that you are so kindly supported. You must love God-I want to have you make your peace with God. Can't you see how good God is to you? God has done great deal for you and for me. Remember that you have got to love God, or else you perish for ever. God has given his Son to die for you-I want to have you love God very much. I want to talk with you by and by-my strength fails-I can't now-I want to say more........."
This is probably but a part of what was spoken, and that imperfectly translated. The address, under the circumstances in which it was made, was affecting beyond description. The weakness of Obookiah, which was such that it was with difficulty that he could utter an audible sound; the peculiarly affectionate and earnest tones of his voice, the voice occasionally faltering in death-his companions sitting around him with broken hearts-some of them almost unable to support their grief-the address being continued until his strength was entirely exhausted-rendered the scene literally overwhelming-Loud sobbing was heard throughout tile room; and from persons little accustomed even to weep.
After Henry had ceased to speak, one of his countrymen, at his request, communicated in English to those of his countrymen who were not able to understand the Owhyhee language, such things as Henry had previously committed to him for that purpose.
An hour or two after this, when Obookiah had obtained a little rest, his countryman, who had been absent during the address, coming in, he said to him, "Sit down, I have been talking with the other boys. They have been very kind to me-I can't pay them-but the Lord Jesus has enough and to spare-not money nor wine-He will reward them. You, as well as I, are a poor boy; you have no father nor mother here. God has given us good friends, and you must love him and serve him and when we be departed here, we may praise God for ever. We must all die. Doct. C. cannot save us when we are sick unto death. You and I are sinners. May the Lord Jesus have mercy on our poor souls. I must rest."
To a son of the Rev. Mr. S. who came to his bed-side, and after looking at him, was about to withdraw, he said, "Wait-wait-I wish to speak to you. You have got to be a great boy-you have been to school a great deal. Remember you will be examined at the Day of judgment, for your improvement." To a friend, he said, "My faith holds out." To another, "How soon shall I be taken away," It was answered, "Pretty soon." He was asked, "if you could have your choice, would you choose to live or to die ?" He replied, "I do not know; I wish to live to do good; if it were not for this, I do not wish to live another moment." And added, with much apparent grief, "I've lost my time-l've lost my time." To another friend, he said, "I have no desire to live, if I can enjoy the presence Of God, and go where Christ is." Looking down at his feet, which bore evident marks of approaching death, he cried out, "Oh, Mortality." His physician requested him to take some medicine which was disagreeable to him; he said, "Wait, wait, Sir, till to-morrow;" but soon consented, and said, "perhaps there will be no to-morrow." The evening before his death, the Rev. Mr. Mills, whom he always called "Father," came in to see him. He looked at him very wishfully, and said, "Will you pray, Sir, before we part?" He listened to the prayer with fixed attention, and when it was closed, said, as he had done in every instance before, "I thank you. Sir-"-and this with a sweetness of voice, and an expression of countenance, which none can conceive but those who witnessed.
As death seemed to approach, Mrs. S. said to him, "Henry, do you think you are dying?" He answered, "Yes ma'am"-and then said, "Mrs. S. I thank you for your kindness." She said, "I wish we might meet hereafter." He replied, "I hope we shall"-and taking her hand, affectionately bid her farewell. Another friend taking his hand, told him that he " must die soon." He heard it without emotion, and with a heavenly smile bade him his last adieu.
He shook hands with all his companions present, and with perfect composure addressed to them the parting salutation of his native language, "Alloah o'e."-My love be with you.
But a few minutes before he breathed his last, his physician said to him, "How do you feel now Henry?" He answered, "Very well-I am not sick-I have no pain-I feel well." The expression of his countenance was that of perfect peace. He now seemed a little revived, and lay in a composed and quiet state for several minutes. Most of those who were present, not apprehending an immediate change, had seated themselves by the fire. No alarm was given, until one of his countrymen who was standing by his bed-side, exclaimed, "Obookiah's gone." All sprang to the bed. The spirit had departed-but a smile, such as none present had ever beheld-an expression of the final triumph of his soul, remained upon his countenance.
End of Section 2
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