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JOURNAL
OF
LOIS S. HOYT JOHNSON
From Dec. 19, 1836 to Dec. 20, 1838
HAWAIIAN MISSION CHILDREN'S SOCIETY
LIBRARY
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Dec. 19, 1836
Page 1
A Journal dedicated to the use of L.S.H. Johnson.
During her voyage on board the Mary Frazier from Boston to the
Sanwich(!) Islands.
Monday December 19th 1836
O
37
We are now five days out from Boston.
Sailing in lat.
1
Ot
07 long. 43 10 under a fair breeze, havingsailed 120 miles
sinceyesterday
noon.
Truly we have great reason to bless God
for his great goodness to us.
The health of our company is in
a great degne-d(?) restored nearly all took their seats at the
Table this morning, and seem to reslish their food quite well.
Last eve for the first time since we have been on board we had
devotional exercises.
And it was indeed a season of refreshing.
It seemed good to draw nigh unto the Lord and unitedly acknowledge
his goodness to us, we are now to have prayers at eight in the
evening and immediately after breakfast in the morning.
Last Tuesday which was Dec. the 14the[i.e. 13th] was the
day appointed our ship being ready for her embarkation
according
ly divine services were held on board at half past 10 A.M. but
for want of wind we were unable to get out of the harbour so we
remained on shore.
The next morning the wind being fair we received
eally orders to go on board and about ten o clock all things being
in readiness we spread our Canvass to the wind and in a few moments
our Aisle Barque was ploughing the broad Atlantic.
Immediately
after leaving the wharf we went below to arrange our cabins and
�Dec. 19, 1836
Journal, LoissS.H. Johnson
Page 2
prepare for Sea sickness but that did not wait for preparation-scarcely was the motion of the vesel(!) felt before we were obliged
to take our berths and there we remained most of us for two days.
Friday Dec. 16th
It being a litle(I) more calm I made
an attempt to go on deck.
But it being the first timer-that I
ever was out of sight of land and seeing nothing but the broad
waters meeting the horison in every direction and the angry waves
swelling and ;
with untameable fury [it] was a sene(!) to[o]
terific for me long to behold and I gladly soon returned below.
Sat. Dec. 17th
The sea being more calm I went on deck
immediately after breakfast.
The appearance of the ocean was
more peaceful and the fine breeze after being confined in our
state rooms seemed very exhilerating and at the sound of the
diner bell returned below with a tolerable good appetite.
Sabbath.
Dec. 18th.
It being a rough sea it affected
most of our company unfavourably and we were obliged to keep our
births(I).
I could hardly realize that it was the Holy Sabbath
it was so unlike our blessed sabbaths on our beloved America.
No
sound of a church going bell to remind us of its holy return.
And one of the Sailors remarked that there was no Sunday over
soundings -----
--------
Tuesday, Dec. 20th ----- ------ ------The Captain tells us that by obesrvation to day at noon
that we were sailing in lat. 36°. 371. long. 50° 17 and that we
had sailed 200 miles the last 24 hours.
one thousands miles from our native land.
gale seems wafting us pleasantly along.
We are now more”than
Thus far a propitious
May the God of Heaven
watch over us and safely guide our little Barque to its destined
�Dec. 20, 1836
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
port.
And 0 grant Father of mercies
that
Page 3
every soul on
after having riden out
the storms of life
shores of eternity may
safely anchor in that harbour
board
and coasted down the
of
rest where
no wave of trouble can ever enter.
Last night a flying fish came on board and was caught by
the second mate.. This was quite a curiosity to those of us who
had never seen a fish with wings.
it was small and slim like a
Pickeral about 10 or 12 inches in length and about the same from
one tip end of its wings to the other.
The sailors say that they
are fine eating and the appearance of them 'indicate that we are
sailing in the Gulf stream as they are never found in so high
latitude except there.
its colour I forgot.to mention was of a
greenish cast.
Wednesday Dec 21st.
To day we are sailing in lat 35.° 59' and long 46°. 50’.
The weather seems rather cold yet, but we get along very comfortably
withoutnany fire,
we do not think,if safe to have fire on board
ship.
There was put on board by our kind benefactors for our
comfort a great number of Pigs and poultry of which about one
half have already died from some unknown cause and the others
seem faultering.
Thursday Dec. 22d
Our lat. is 35° 27’ long. 44°, distance sailed for the
last 24 hours is about 150 miles.
The sea to day is more calm
and it [is] very delightful being on deck and viewing the graceful
�Journal, Lois SYH. Johnson
Dec. 22, 1836
movement of the vesel as she gently skims along.
went on deck and the scene was truly sublime.
Page 4
Last evening I
The silvery Moon
every now and then darting her resplendent rays from behind the
fleecy clouds which were lightly floating along and the waves
tossing mountain high as if they were about to ingulf moon and all
in and all in' (1:). their abyss below,
moment such
who can. contemplate for a
a scene without being made to feel the infinite power
of God who measureth the waters as in the hollow of his hand and
taketh up the hills as a very litle thing.
what are we worms of
the dust that so great and holy a being should take knowledge of
us.
Yet we are surrounded by his goodness,
new every morning and fresh every moment.
his blessings are
surely we aught to render
unto him the tribute of humble and grateful hearts.
have had the smiles of Heaven upon our voyage,
So far we
we could not ask
more our comfort and happiness have been regarded as far as posible.
We have a fine vesel expressly fixed for our accomodation.
every
necesary want is suplied and our Captain is a man of so much skill
and experience as to enable us to repose (?) implicit confidence in
him.
naturaly mild and amiable isshis disposition we can both
love and respect him.
The other officers to are men to steady
habits and kind hearts and justly entitled to our respect.
And
may we who profess to love the Lord Jesus Christ be enabled to show
unto them such an example of Christian love and union as shall en
able them to say that there is a reality in the religion of Jesus.
Friday Dec. 23d.
We are advancing very slowly having
sailed only 24 miles the last\;24 hours.
30T.
our lat. 35°31r long 43°.
I find that I can walk to day without fearing every moment
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Dec. 23, 1836
that I shall be thrown headlong across the vesel.
Page 5
We must however
take the wind and weather as it rises and remember to that it is
the best.
There seems to be a good spirit on board existing in
the hearts of our dear brothers and sisters and I trust that we
shall have many refreshing seasons.. May the Lord be with us and
bless u s .
Sunday Dec. 25th
It was intended to have worship on
deck this morning but the sea being very rough it was deemed in
expedient by the Captain so we assembled around our table and held
our exercises there,
the Captain alone being present the others
being obliged to be on duty.
4, v 11.
Brother Ives preached from Matt.
It brought to mind our priviledges in our dear native
land and led us to feel that God may be worshiped on the Sea as
well as on the land and thought our prayer ascend to him from the
depths of the Ocean he will hear it and he is the same unchangeing
being here that he is in every part of the Universe.
we are to have a prayer meeting.
We are now making tolerable good
progress having sailed 146 miles since yesterday.
long 90” . 49’
of the waters.
This evening
our lat is 32°.10T
Last evening while on deck I witnessed the sparkling
it looked like diamonds in the Ocean.
It probably
arises from some phosphorus substance in the water as it is only
seen in the wake of the vesel as the sailors
Teus.(!) Dec. 27th
dull both in mind and in body.
it.
Awoke this morning languid and
Yesterday our latitude was nearly
the same as that of New Orelans.
the temperature of the atmosphere
however was like a faint spring morning.
After a fresh fair breeze
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Dec. 27, 1836
Page 6
during thernight we find this morning a calm sea with scance [scant]
wind to fill the sails.
Thus our variety at sea consists in some
times being tossed mountain high upon the waves then sinking in a
valey between.
Then again almost resting on the surface of the
waters seemingly as if our little Barque like the ark of Noah had
at last found a resting place.
We were now more than two thousand
miles distant from our dear homes and nearer the shores of Europe
than those of our own beloved America.
The Captain told us yester
day that we were within about 600 miles of land.
this was pleasing
inteligence although I do not expect the previous priviledge of
steping foot on it which although I have not yet been on the water
but two weeks would be the greatest priviledge that I could wish
for.
I long very much to step my foot on the dry land.
But not
withstanding that I love a firmer(?) foundation I find a sea voyage
is not without its pleasures/v what at first excited terror now
excites pleasure.
I love to see the foaming and dashing of the
troubled bilows and to trace their varied beauties of form and
shade till the mind is lost in admiration of him who invented all
things.
By a vote
of
made in order that
we
our company adivision of our time has been
may be
able to dispose of
it profitably.
From prayers in the morning till noon is to be devoted to study
from 2
P.M. till 5 PM
also. A part of our time is to be employed
in thestudy of the language
but as
on board it is necesarly limited.
we have but one vocabulary
We find our latitude to day
about 29°. 0 and long. 36°.371 distance sailed 158 miles.
Wednesday Dec 28th
One day after another passes away
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Dec. 28, 1836
and every day brings us nearer the judgement bar.
Page 7
Nearer the
eternal joys of Heaven on the everlasting misery of the world of
woe solem and awful thought.
aright.
Oh how important that we setle it
Heavenly Father help me to hander [handle] it well and
to live for Christ,
but what am I doing for his glory.
faithful to my covenant vows.
How un
It is indeed of his infinite com
passion that I am the spared monument of his mercy.
0 for a heart
overflowing with love and gratitude to the blessed Saviour whose
love to me so great.
Was it my sins which brought him from his
fathers bosom cruel sins that nailed him to the cross and may
those sins all be washed away in that previous blood.
0 humiliating
yet consoling thought.
Hard as the nether millstone the heart
C,bhi/'O
that does not melt in c^>*s^i-tu-ti-on at this. We are. now nearly
in the region of the trade winds and the air is extremely sultry,
our latitude is 28°.05' long 35° 31' distance sailed 82 miles.
Thursday Dec 29th
season of prayer.
he prays he lives.
Last evenig(!) we had a precious
Prayer is the Christians food and only while
Let him feast his soul often then on heavenly
joys by holy communion with our God.
By daily experience from
acquaintance with human nature and by remarks thrown out by per
sons of discriminating observation who know well what the Christian
should be and mark with an eagles eye their deficiences I feel the
importance of exerting a high standard of piety for it is from
cold hearted professors and not from the bible that the world forms
iv 'thtLs \\ouuse^ 4 L)\S
her eestimate of religion. In this way Christ is wounded ^ his
^
But let the Christian so live as by his
o?
example of holy life to recomend the religion^Jesus and not lead
wounds bleed affresh.
a^(L-
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Dec. 2 9
,1836
Page 8
siners to say what do they move than others.
Lat. 29° 38' long 33° 52' distance sailed 100 miles.
December 31st
2000 miles.
of the year.
lat 25° 26T long 29° 50T
distance sailed
to day reminded that this, is the last day
Is it posible another year has rolled away and its
long train of accounts sealed up for the judgment!of the great
day and with it thousand of our fellow men have entered the eter
nal world, their fate unalterably fixed while I still linger on
the shores of time,
why is it Q God that I am still spared.
is
it that I may be the humble instrument in thy hand of doing some
thing for my poor suffering fellow creatures and work out my own
salvation with fear and trembl m g or is it that I may fill up the
measure of my condemnation and be forever lost.
0 forbid Heavenly
Father that this should be the case but grant that my name may be
writen in the lambs book of life and whatever else thou deny me
not an internest (?) in thy
This year has indeed been an erarin my life never to be forgoten,
an era of events of the most solem and interesting kind the results
and influence of which Eternity alone can fully unfold.
January 1st 1837
The Holy Sabbath has dawned upon and
with it brought the commencent(!) of a new year.
And now 0 God I
would desire on this holy sabbath and at the commencnt(!) of this
new year to concecrate-myself anew to thee and wilt thou enable
me to keep my covenant vows.
That should I live to see its close
I may not again be compelled to mourn over my unfaithfulness.
may I live entirely for thee.
But
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 1, 1837
This morning we have Publick worship on deck.
Page 9
the
weather is calm and beautiful and officers and seamen were all
present and to me it was intearesting (!) occasion.
May God grant
success to the word which was spoken raid may it prove the word of
life to immortal souls.
The latitude 21°30' longitude 24°26t
distance sailed 193 miles.
We are in less than three hundred
miles of one of the Cape deVerd Islands.
And just within the
Tropic and notwithstanding it is January the atmosphere bears the
aspect of a sumers day.
Monday Jan 2
lat 20°,17
Ion 27° 12 distance 80 miles.
this is a day set apart by the churches throughout all Christendom
as a day of fasting and prayer for the conversion of a dying world.
And we a litle body of Christians all alone upon the broad Ocean
yet feeling that God is about us have resolved to pour out our
prayers upon the Altar of God that they may come up as a memorial
with those of our friends before his throne.
I have indeed found
sweet consolation in reading the holy scriptures this morning.
Thy word is very fine therefore thy searvent(I) loveth it. thy
promises to a fainting spirit are like the water brooks to a
thirsty soul in a dry land.
But 0 Father I acknowledge my entire
unworthiness of thy great goodness
and desire to take my proper
place in the dust and by humiliation and prayer to confess my sins
UJ
before thee and £ilt thou dear Saviour apply thy cleansing blood
to my soul and purify it from all its stains and grant me thy
presence which is life and thy loving kindness which is better
than life.
in the evening we observed the monthly Concert, and found
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
it a pleasant season,
Jan. 2, 1837
Page 10
notwithstanding we had no opportunity of
reciv'eing (!) and communicating inteligence yet we could Se,Y)d
up
our humble prayer to God that he will cary on his great work con
verting perishing siners to himself till this lost and rruined
world is brought back to himself.
Teusday(!) jan 3d
40 miles.
lat 20°.06’ long 26° 41' distance
This morning a Shoal of fish called the black fish
were seen playing around the vesel.
they are a large fish and
their flesh is said to resemble beef arc both in color and taste
and their inwards when fryed are like Pigs. at eve I for the
w
first time.since I have been on board witnessed the sun set clear.
It was truly sublime,
the
my eyes were riveted to the scene to see
king of day finally(?) sink in the horison till at length
aparently burying itself in the mighty deep throwing back its
silvery rays on the light and lucid (?) clouds skirting the
western sky painting
the gentle undulating waves of the calm
and placial Ocean with a golden hue.
Wednesday Jan 4th
sailed 105 miles.
lat 18°39T long 26°29’
distance
St. Anthony one of the cape de Vend Islands
bearing SE 1/2 E 180 miles distant.
Early this morning my ears
were greeted by the glad sound of a sail a sail., all hands hastened
on deck and some s-trcking^'?) up their heads some
£& jra^b
up
mast head waiting impatiently to catch the first glimpse of our
distant neighbour.
At last upon straining our eyes till we were
most blind we saw a dark speck in the horison.
were started at once.
a thousand
some thought perhaps that she was a
d,d>\Vr£sS
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 4, 1837
Page 11
others what should they do if she was a Pirate others hoped that
she was hound to America.
So after waiting awhile and finding
her to approach nearer and hearing the Captain say that perhaps
we mi ght speak
her all hands hastened below and such
among our good friends to get something ready to send to their
dear friends.
I never saw. I more doubting, cooly set down to
my Algebra till at length the Captain being desirous to learn
something more of his neighbour ordered colors to be hoisted
and after waiting awhile they in return hoisted theirs but our
Captain could hardly by their introduction make out who they were
and they seeming disposed to keep their own track and we ours
passed along without farther ceremony after being in view about
two hours,
Heaving the
impression
however that we were not
sole proprieters.ofAthe mighty deep.
Fryday Jan 6th
A litle more variety to cheer us on our way.
no sooner
were I up than the glad sound of land rested on my ear and I gladly
hastened on deck almost expecting to discover the rocks and the
mountains the hills and the valies, with here and there a spire
glitering in the morning sun beam.
but instead of this I could
only see a distant rising in the apearance of a cloud yet to h-i-m,
that itdwals]ilandscaused my heart to vibrate with a thrill of new
joy.
lat. 16°.15T long 26°.16
Friday January 6th
sailed 188 miles.
distance 150 miles.
lat 13°19' long 25°28'
distance
We are now in the curent of the trade winds
bourne along by a fhir breeze and although we are sailing in the
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 6, 1837
Page 12
the torid zone and approaching the equator yet we are fa/ed by
the breath of Heaven and do not find the heat oppressive except
in our state rooms,
love and wisdom.
And daily experience new evidence of his
How wisely has he favored this great Universe
setting one thing off against another.
Thus, in the burning
regions of the torid Zone he is gently fa$or±i£^ the heated atK
mosphere with a constant breeze and in the frozen regions of the
North to cheer its long and dreary night the silvery moon with her
QJXX O TCU
resplendent rays and the bright
light
up the Heavens with indescribable beauty thus enablingtthe poor
native to provide his humble fare.
On the parched plains of
?
there grows a tree and underneath its green foliage the weary
travellor finds a cool retreat, and from its leaves extracts a
cooling draught of fin<f" water.
I must go on deck.
But a sail Ahoy again echoes and
This morning flocks of flying fish were
flying about over the surface of the water resembling in my
view flocks of snow birds in New England.
Saturday January 7th
lat 10°32' long 25°47' distance sailed 176 miles.
we
are now 3,487 miles from Boston and every succeeding wave bearing
us farther and farther.
Thermometer stands at 77 degrees in the
shade to day.
was quite amused this afternoon by large fish looking
almost like yearling calves jumping almost entirely out then
plunging beneath the waves in pursuit of the flying fish which
it seeks as its prey.
brings, with it a charm.
anything to break the monotany and it
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Sunday Jan 8th
has now dawned upon us.
Jan./ 8-, 1837
Page 13
never did I witness a lovlier morn than
all nature partakes of its sacred stillness
even the atmosphere seems to wear a holy charm, blessed day of all
the seven the best.
All voces
All necesary business was dispached as soon as posiblee
Seats arranged on deck which by the way is kept very clean.
an
awning spread over our heads to protect us from the rays of the sun.
And at ten all on board ship exept(!) one or two whose necesary
services detained them assembled dressed neat and clean with
happy countenances to listen to the truth.
Brother Conde ad
dressed us from Habbusuch 2d 3d 0 Lord revive thy work in the
midst of years.
The object of the speaker seem to be to impress
the necesity of a revival of Gods work and to present reasons
why it was necesary and also to bring forward promises to en
courage Christians to pray for such a revival and I trust it was
the united prayer of all the Children of God that he would send his
holy spirit to make the truth effectual, to the edification of his
children and to the promotion of his glory--in the salvation of some
poor siners.
In the evening we had a precious season of prayer,
a spirit of prayer seem to rest on the brothers and their hearts
went out to God,
I do feel that God is waiting to bless us.
0
may we walk softly before him and humbly rely on him taking our
proper place in the dust, confessing before him our sins.
04°46’ long 25°28'
distance sailed 166 miles.
Monday Jan 9th
159 miles.
lat.
lat 95°28'
long 25°,20T distance sailed
I begin to feel as if we were quite in the vicinity
of neighbours.
Early this morning another vesel hove in sight
�Journal, Lois S..H. Johnson
Jan. 9, 1837
Page 14
with her white full sails spread to the wind proudly ploughing
the mighty ocean and as her track seem so
1
we anticipated the pleasure of speaking her.
our course
We hoisted colours
and saw in return the well known flag of our beloved America.
Her
Star Spangled banner floating on the gentle breeze filled our
heart with Joy and awakened in our bosoms all the fond recolections
of our dear native land.
And our fancys ev'ry flight in an instant
wafted us accross(!) the broad Atlantic.
refreshed by a gentle shower.
About 8 AM we we(!) were
The day however has been excesively
warm below but onr deck a fine breeze to fan our languid systems.
The cloud indicate thunder showers now and if it would cool the
air as it used [to] in New England it would be very grateful.
Teusday Jan 10th
sailed 96 miles.
lat 03°,42T long 24°51
distance
last night we were visited by heavy showers
accompanied by thunder and lightning.
This morning the air is
very close and Sultry, the clouds indicating more rain.
Our
neighbour who came in view yesterday seems still to keep in our
vicinity, once and in a while displaying her while sails to our
view.
about 5 PM the Heavens began to blacken and a thick cloud
of rain from the distant horison came sweeping over troubled
waves and in a few seconds the rain descended in torents.
It
was refreshing and I enjoyed being on deck exceedingly notwith
standing we got a litle ^IelrMtg',
.'Y^ A large Whale was seen by the
first Mate close alongside of our vesel.
neighbours might not be on amicable terms
But he fearing his
to
negotiate for a treaty of peace, made sail to the windward and was
off without giving us an opportunity to examine this Leviathan of
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 10, 1837
Page 15
the great deep.
Wednesday Jan 11th
lat 2°,8' long. 25°,15T
distance
97 miles, distance sailed since leaving Boston 4000 miles.
mometer 79 to day.
yesterday it was 81.
influence of the South East Trade winds.
Ther
We are now under the
as an indication of
this a shoal of Porpoises leaping and gamboling towards that
point sometimes darting like an arow shot from a bow then sink
ing as quickly again beneath the waves.
they move in large
companys in regular file like a battle ^tn. in array seting their
strongest forward, females in the rear and their young in the
midle and if any one of their number is atacked they defend him
uttering fearful cries as if to frighten away their enimies.
Was delightfuly surprised this afternoon by the approach
of a vesel with our well known star spangled baner floating on the
breeze and making towards us. in a short time she was along side
of us and the usul [usual] salutations on such occasions were passed
and although we have been out to sea only four short weeks yet to
hear a human voice out of our own vesel gave new animation to my
drooping spirits.
Boston.
Bound to
It proved to be the Alceope 25 days out from
uhOrvttJtt
fox pepper.
I think that they must
have been quite interested with our company of Ladies for we were
all gazing with intense interest as if we almost expected to greet
the voice or recognize the countenance of some old acquaintance.
But however to learn that she was from the port of Boston and to
speak here 400 miles from there seemed like meeting an old friend
in a strange land and after watching her as she magesticaly[majestically]
rode over the proud bilious till she was wafted from our view and
we returned below very much gratified.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 13, 1837
Thud'S . kcCt' 19-0 , <27. 3
Equator
Page 16
fo4-yn\)e~s
Friday Jan 13th Lat 00°,20T minuets (!) South of the
H'
long 28 02 V distance sailed 135 miles. Thermometer 82.
To day we have passed the dividing point which seperates our world
into two grand divisions.
A cool breeze renders the atmosphere
very tolerable.
Saturday Jan. 14th
sailed 161 miles
lat 2°40’ long 29°14'
Thermometer 81.
distance
Another week is now gone into
eternity and we are still here to tell of the Lords goodness.
0
that I might praise him with my whole soul for his wonderful love
to me.
Sabbath-jJan 15th
sailed 171 miles
lat 5°, 26’ long 30°, 36 distance
Thermometer 81 degrees --
--
--
Another blessed Sabbath has dawned upon our view bringing
with it, all its holy and lovely charms.
signaly blessed than ourselves.
Never were beings more
surely the Lord has crowned us
with hissloving kindness
surly his mercies are new every morning
and fresh every evening.
I will call upon my Lord and all that is
within me to bless and praise his holy name.
at 10 A M we all assemble on deck and have publick exer
cises.
all dressed neat and clean and seated around the speaker.
The strickest attention is manifest and we read and sing and preach
and pray and trust we get a faint foretaste of Heaven.
In the af
ternoon a prayer meeting was holden [held] in the Forecastle for
the Seamen and in the mean while the sisters united in prayer that
God would bless the efforts of our dear brethren for their salva
tion.
Manifestly the Lord is waiting to be gracious.
He.is already
�Journal, L:ois, S.R. Johnson
hovering over us.
Jan. 15, 1837
0 forrmore faith.
Page 17
0 for more holiness of heart
that this place might indeed be filled with the Holy Spirit and all
these precious souls be born into thy kingdom.
Here is indeed a
field given us by the Lord and if we [are] unfaithful here how shall
we stand aquited before God and expect that he will bless our labours
among the heathen.
abode here.
0 blessed Saviour condescend to take up thine
And may a view of thy lovely character melt every soul
into contrition and every voice be vocal with thy praise and our
litle Barque indeed a floating Bethel on the great deep-- -- --
Monday Jan 16th
lat 7°27’ long 31°37T
--
distance sailed
144 Thermometer 82
Time passes pleasantly and nothing to record but the bles
sings of Heaven.
[The following line is written in the margin:]
Jan 14th.
Tensday
164 miles.
nearest Port on the coast of South America 100 miles.
Jan 17th
lat~9°35
long 32°.5'
distance sailed
Another American vesel in view with our own national
baner floating on the breeze and awaking in my bosom all the fond
recolections of my dear native land.
fondest sweetest recolections.
Land of my birth land of my
But much as I love thee thou fair
portion of this fallen world would I return to thy fair shores.
no not one fond regret mars my happiness.
no longer my home.
Ah
Thou dear America art
all thy endearments have lost their charms.
I would be a pilgrim and a stranger here looking steadfastly
towards the Heavenly Canaan the city of our King. Where there shall
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 17, 1837
be no kneed of the light of the Sun:'nor of the moon.
Page 18
For the Son
of rightneous shall be the light thereof whose pearly gates shall
never be closed, whose streets are paved with gold, watered by a
stream of puer(!) water flowing out from the Throne of God whose
joaujvlta
are Messed pn living green.
thou find an inheritance there.
thy home.
0 my unworthy sroul canst
do not des-i-r-e me.
Will this be
yes it may Transformed into the image of thy Saviour,
thou m-e-ryaes-t tune thy harp of gold and swell the song of redeem
ing love
Then no longer grasp at the pleasures of this world
which will pierce thee with a thousand poisonous arrows leaving
thee at last to bleed and die but strech thy wings and soar away
to fairer worlds beyond thesskies -- -- -- -- -- --
Wednesday Jan 18th
Latitude ll°48t long 33°38T
distance
sailed 150 miles,
was interested in noticing a litle fleet of what
e
we called the Portuguse m£n of war. They appeared on the surface
of the water rising and sinking with as much grace as as (’) a litle
boat under sail, resembling in size and appearance large white eggs
but they are not shell fish but a soft glutinous substance and have
the power of expanding and filling themselves with air when they
wish to rise and exhausting the air again when they wish to sink,
when taken and dried they become transparent and are much valued
by the naturalist on the account of their scarceity.
Thursday Jan 19th
distance sailed 159 miles.
Latitude 15°12
longitude■35°21’
Last evening we held our Wednesday
night prayer meeting as usal.
VTidihxtfiw&TVS
But there was less irae=fe±3iations
of the presence of God than we have sometimes enjoyed.
there did
�Journal, Lois S..H. Johnson
Jan. 19, 1837
Page 19
not seem to be that melting down of the heart and pouring out of
the whole soul to God as we have experienced and I was led to
inquire why is it that the Spirit [of] the Lord is stayed.
is it
I that hinders the spirit from decending upon these dry bones.
0 Lord search us and take everything from us
which causes thee to
withold thy blessing from us all.
belongs to the[e] 0
God.
the glory
And we beseech thee that thou wilt glorify thyself in thee^
salvation of these poor per [i] shing 'rd-v&r-s- for thy dear Son sake
save us from going down to the chambers of despair.
Fryday Jan 20th
sailed 168 miles.
Lat 16°54'
Long 34°39T
A fair breeze still wafts
Heaven smiles and we are happy.
distance
us gently along.
And as I cast a look over our
our(I) litle band.A litle world as it were all by itself bounded
by the horison in all directions, And see one engaged in one way
another diferntly employed, perhaps a litle group in some sequestered
corner poring over Algebra with all the intense diligence of Aca
demical students look a litle further and another group meets your
eye searching for the hiden
~t-K'(L(L<5lLXQuS
of the Hawaiian language,
in some still retreat you will see a solitary one feasting on the
scientific sweets of bygone days, in another shady spot a circle
of Ladies busily plying the needle keeping up all the social chit
chat of a New England sewing circle, one with his eye fixed steadily
on the rolling deep, perhaps sending an anxious sigh rreumre on the
floating Zephyn towards his loved shore.
up and down the broad
way of our deck you will see gentlemen and ladies promenading, enjoy
ing all the beauties of the surrounding scenery.
still cast your
eye around and you will see one writing here, and another there.
�Jan. 20, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Page 20
look a litle farther and you will see some making sails, some
spin[n]ing ropes, some cooking some some (!) washing dishes some
seting tables, so we have all the bustle and variety of a litle
community.
After a day spent in its various ocupations we go on
deck to enjoy the evenings cool breeze and gaze with enraptured
delight on Sols departing rays and on the beauty of a lovely twi
light scene of a tropical climate.
Tungue(?) would fail to give a
description of this enchanting scene as I gaze and gaze
beauties open to my view till I am lost in admiration.
As the
King of day with dasiling [dazzling] glory sinks in the horison
lin^er?ng with a golden fringe the skirting clouds and polishing
the curling waves with a sheet of silver till it apparently plunges
in the briney liquid, sending up its efulgent rays to paint the
Heavens with every varigated hue.
here perhaps a dark cloud shaded
with the bright orange bordered with a light green, others with all
the colours of the rainbow blended to-gether presenting in imagina
tion a thousand different figures,
here and there a distant tree,
here perhaps an extended plain interspersed with litle vilages. in
the back ground you imagine hills rising into view with now and
then a projecting rock juting forwadd.
look again and you will
picture to your view every variety of man, bird and beast, perhaps
an Elephant Just waking from behind a hill, perhaps next you will
discover Sampson carraying off the gates of Gaza, next an owl
perched on a
rock, then an old man bending under a
huge burden, now a reindeer stands up with full speed before the
grey hound, now a ship under full sail, now a steam boat--thus
ever changing ever new, then to
the west
contrast the clean sky of
and melowed to the richest tint with the
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 20, 1837
deep blue of the east is lovely in the extreme. --
Saturday Jan 21st
distance sailed 160 miles.
--
Page 21
--
lat 19°8T longitude
--
(!)
How fast time rolls away.
Saturday
afternoon reminds me that another holy Sabbat is near at hand.
Sabbath Jan 22d
This has indeed been a precious day
and although our congregation consists of none others than are
attached to our vesel and the deck our Sanctuary Yet we have
precious priviledges.
omy 32.31st.
Dr. Lafawn [Lafon] preached from Deuteron
Their Rock is not as our Rock our enimies being
judges.
lat 21°11T
Long 37°00
Monday Jan 23d
distance sailed 152 mils*
Lat 23°42'
Longitude 38°
distance
sailed 154 miles.
Teusday jan 24th
Lat 26°23T long 38°54'
distance
sailed 176 miles.
I have spent this day in fasting and self examination
and prayer and found it as I trust a profitable season to my soul.
Was overwhelmed with a view of the love of Christ.
worthy of anything but the wrath of God.
his Holy word.
I felt un
But could not take up
but what Christ appeared with a promise in his
hands and I could do nothing but adore his condescension.
0 bles
sed Saviour let [me]--never again lose ear view' of-thyigiorious charac
ter.
Thy approveing smile is worth more than all treasures of
r
Indian 0. make me mote like thyself and then I will praise thee
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
as I ought.
Jan. 24, 1837
Page 22
As is our usal practice spent about half an hour
in prayer with the sisters.
It being impracticable to meet all
at a time so we have made it a practice to meet in litle groups
and spend a litle time each day before tea.
they are.
And precious seasons
&2-
And I trust our souls are sometimes fui with heavenly
bread.
Wednesdy January 25th
sailed 182 miles.
lat 28° 5
long 40°1'2-'
distance
As the winds are wafting us to our destined
home so time with equal rapidity is huring [hurrying] us to our
Eternal home.
a few more rolling Suns and we shall stand dis
embodied spirits before the throne of God and am I with the same
speed making my way to Heaven.
This is a solem inquiry which I
ever wish to keep in view that I may indeed appear at last among
the blood-washed throng around the throne, having this vile body
changed into a glorious body clothed with fine white linen.
Thursday Jan 26
192 miles.
Thermometer 79.
lat 31°45T long 41°45’
distance sailed
The Heavens are overcast with threat-
ing(!) clouds and the dashing and roaring of the swelling waves
foretell the troubled state of the restless ocean.
The skilful
Mariner takes the alarm and puts his frail Barque in the best
posible "tf/nro
to stem the agnry Torent.
Since I have been a
sojourner on the deep I have often while reflecting on vicisitudes
of our voyage have felt that it illustrates the voyage of life
in a very striking maner.
In a frail boat of a clay tenement we
are tossed on the broad ocean of time, sometimes gentley gliding
on a smooth and placid surface while the soft sunbeams of pros
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 26,1837
perity are smiling around us.
Page 23
soon perhaps our bright sky lowers
the black clouds of adversity frowns upon us, angry waves beat
about us and we are almost overwhelmed in de[s]pair(?).
Then perhaps
a calm suceeds, we again dream that all will be tranquil and serene
and gliding down the curent of time we are assailed by the storm of
death and are swallowed up in [the] whirlpoor of eternity.
But if
t
like the skilfull mariner we keep our life boat in
and
Christ is at our helm he will guide [us] safely into Heaven where
no cloud can ever enter to darken our bright horison, where no
storm can assail us to terify our peacefull spirits.
ocean of love we will sail on forever
Friday Jan 27th
sailed 155 miles.
Lat 35°1(P
But on an
-- --------
Long. 41°1'
distance
Went on deck early. thesSun had Just.arisen
with unbeclouded beauty.
a cool breeze was blowing briskly and
§W \
the atmosphere and all combined to remind me very f-avribly of a
September morning--------— — -------------------------------
Saturday Jan 28th
miles.
Lat 36°9’
longitude 41°
awoke with a bad head ache and have not felt any spirit
to enjoy anything which was passing around me.
took a walk up and
down our cabin, calling at the different state rooms.
more
dis. 121
found them
like a Hospital than anything else, some containing one,
some two patients.
the closing up of a week brings to mind the
closing up of life when all our labours will come to an end.
And
as I have sometimes sat musing in the lovely hour of twilight I
have felt a sort of pleasing undefineable meloncholy steal over
me and I have been bourne back to the early scenes of childhood
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Jan. 28, 1837
Page 24
and all the tender assosiations of those happy scenes come fresh
to recolection-----------
— ■— ■ —
Sunday Jan 29th
sailed 10 5.
latitude 37°15
Services on deck at 10 A M.
Bliss from Hebrews 2.3d.
long 42°6' distance
aertLoYu
s-er-v-iG-e-s- by brother
If ye neglect so great salvation how
should ye escape. Bible class at 3 PM lesson 32 chapter of Acts.
Prayer meeting in the evening as is usal
Monday Jan 30th
miles.
Lat 38°24’
-------------
Long 43°13
distance 118
Within the short space of one week we have passed from
an atmosphere heated by a vertical sun and fanned by a gentle
breeze to an atmosphere frowing with angry clouds rudely swept
by winters chilling blasts ---
Teusday Jan 31st
cailed 141 miles.
Lat 40°23
Long 43°28
distance
Fair breeze.
Wednesday Febuary 1st.
sailed 172 miles.
—
Ther 76.
Lat 42^_2 5f long 45°38T
distance
This morning a shoal of Porpoises
darting through the water with the speed of lightening exhibiting
all the playfulness of kitens- — ■ jtilt dropped my pen and
ran on deck to get sight of a Whale but lost my pains for he did
not choose to stop for observation.
Where can we go but we behold
the wonderous works of an infinite God.
All away for the deck
again to see the capture of a porpoise.
fine sport for the sd-alors
I
both to catch the fish and to see the curiosity of the Ladies.
The fish was about five feet in length Having a thick smooth skin
�Feb. 1, 1837
Journal, Lois. S.H. Johnson
about one inch in thickness.
tract oil from it.
Page 25
the sailors call it bluber and ex
the head is singular in form having a long
bill like a ducks bill and an opening in the top of the head
through which it breathes and spouts up the water like the whale.
Birds are very numerous of various kinds, some called Albetrosses
which are very large.
they are many hundreds of miles from land
and never go ashore except to rear their young.
they are ever on
the wing, no resting spot but but (!) the mountain wave.
It often
comes near the vesel to pick up an[y]thing that is thrown over and
sometimes are caught by the sailors -----
--
z'
Thursday Feb. 2d
sailed 188 miles.
Lat 45° 2 T
Thermometer 64.
long 48° 30'
distance
The last night was very rough,
evrything"seemed moveable and on the move from place to place.
But I have become so accustomed to noise and rocking that I mind it
but litle.
This morning we have enjoyed a fine rain.
We have not
yet experienced a storm such as we used to have on land since we
have been at Sea.
We have had but litle rain and that in showers.
We trust to[o] that we have had a shower of divine grace to.
And
I feel as if ever a company of Christians ought to be humb[l]e
and yet have their hearts overflow with gratitude we are that
company.
Our dear Captain who has been like a farther(!) to us
has become doubly endeared by embracing as we hope the Saviour.
God is indeed infinite in power and in mercy and to his name be
all the glory.
heart to Christ.
We also trust that the second mate has given his
If we do indeed belong to to (!) Christ our
faith will be renewed and we shall go to
"thirty^
0f gXace
increased earnestness and not give up or grow weary while one
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Feb. 2, 1837
soul is out of the ark of safety.
Page 26
For God has shown us that he
is willing to hear the weak and feeble petitions ----------------
Friday Feb 3d
116.
Thermometer 56.
lat. 46°11' long 49°53' distance sailed
We are shivering to day in our state rooms
with our winter garments on •
— • ---------------------------
Saturday Feb 4th
miles.
day.
Lat 47°10' Long 51°36’ distance 115
We have experienced somthing(!) somewhat like a gale to
The Ocean presented one of the most grand and sublime views
that I ever witnessed.
The roaring of the mighty waters, The
waves swelling to mountain height, then bursting their green surfa
and throwing up their waters in a shower of spray then sweeping
along capt [capped] by a white foam, almost burying our litle
Barque, and the plunging and labouring to contend against the
mighty element was too sublime for me to describe ----------While viewing the display of Gods power in the world of waters
spread out before us, I was led to reflect on his still greater
power innturning the siner to himself.
0 that we might have a
gale of divine grace which would sweep every impenitent soul
into the kingdom of Heaven ----------- .
[The following,—probably the beginning of a scratch copy of a
letter or note, was written at the top of the page:]
SATURDAY 4th.
interesting volume.
I thank my dear sister for the loan of her
I fear that I have kept it to long, excuse me
I thought I might counteract the wrong in part by commencing to
morrow's journal but I cansonly say Saturday, and perhaps shall
not [have] time to do that.
Good bye.
�Feb. 5, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Sabbath Febuary 5th
sailed 144 miles —
Page 27
.Lat. 48° 44' Long 52!46! distance
-------------
Brother Conde address'd us from John 3d 16v.
We still
feel that the Spirit of the Lord is with us moving upon the hearts
of siners.
But we kneed more faith that we may take hold on the
promises of God and then we shall see greater displays of his. power
and those who are born into the kingdom will be no longer faint
and trembling, hardly knowing whether they have life or not but
they will be strong and vigours [vigorous], . Showing to all around
them that they have indeed become new men in Christ Jesus.
0 the
infinite mercy of God that he can accept such imperfect services
of his children.
So cold so litle concern for those around us,
so litle regard for the glory of his great name.
0 my soul arouse.
Shake of thy fetters of stupidity which so impede thy progress and
so marr thine own happiness and take to thyself the whole c^tYyvo
of faith.
Could Christ weep over siners and shall I see them rush
down to eternal death hJi'hyi dxlc A -
Have I no bowels of compassion.
0 my Saviour forgive me and grant that I may breathe faith something
of thy spirit and have my heart swell with that benevolence which
brought the Saviour from a throne of glory and then and not.
till
then shall I live for the Glory of God -------
Monday Feb 6th
126 miles.
Lat 49°43
Long 56°45
distance sailed
We still are carried prosperously along.
entered on the duties of a new week.
And have
And I now would concecrate
myself anew to God and pray for Heavenly wisdom to direct me
through each new day that I may guard every avenue of my heart,
And thereby be enabled to recommend by example the religion which
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
I profess.
Feb. 6, 1837
Page 28
this morning the sun rose in unclouded (?) splendor.
Now its dusking glory is-shut in by darkening clouds which portend
a storm.
The sailors catch the threating aspect and prepares to
meet it.
So the siner who sees the shower of divine wrath gather
ing over his head and hears the thunderings of Gods threatnings
in his ears may find a safe refuge in fleeing to Jesus Christ 0
C/LOS8
blessed retreat. Dear Saviour let
me ever cling tothy vews^T) .
Grant me thy smile and it shall be
Heaven.
my Polar star tolead me to
And I will not fear although
all the powers of darkness against
Teusday Febuary 7th
sailed 23 miles.
Satan should set in awa-yj
my soul.
Lat 50°29'
Long 58°14T
distance
Last evening we observed the monthly concert.
A spirit of benevolence for a world lost in sin. seemed to
wv
awake up the latent energies of the soul. And many ardent
prayers were was (!) poured out before the throne of God for
those portions of our world which are shrouded in the thick
gloom of heathenish darkness.
And I doubt not but what the united
prayeis of Gods children will come up in rememberance before him.
And he is faithfull to hear and answer prayer.
the streamss of salvation
And he will cause
to flow onward till this vast wilder
ness which is now cheered only by here and there a fertile spot
shall bud and blossom as the rose.
And that blessed light which
now cheers but here and there a litle spot Shall burst forth with
meridiam(?) splendour upon the whole world.
And if even I felt
my heart yearn over souls it was last evening.
And I do rejoice
and bless God for the priviledge of leaving my native land to.
spend my days on heathen shores.
I would not exchange my place
�Feb. 7, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
with a Princes in kingly courts.
No.
Page 29
But had I a thousand lives
gladly would I spend them all for the poor heathen -------------This has been a lovely day.
phere mild.
The sea calm and the atmos
And we have been very much interested in examining
a kind of sea weed which floats on the water.
It Is of various
shapes and appeances [appearances] somewhat resembling leather
only of a different color.
one branch measured about 17 feet.
An Albatross was also caught and taken on deck without much in
jury to the bird.
It was twice as large as a goose, Its body
was covered with white feathers beautifully clouded with black
and of a glossy hue admirably calculated to defend its body--from
the water.
top to top.
Its wings were brown measuidng about 10 feet from
When on deck it did not attempt to rise, seemed
perfectly tame and would allow us to handle him, to take him
up or do anything with him as passively as if he had always been
accostomed to It.
And after we had examined sufficiently we put
him over again into the water and the poor bird swam off glad inde
to make his escape from his new acquaintance --- -- --
Wednesday Feburayr8th
tance sailed 112 miles.
Long 60° 38'
dis-
We are now near the Falkland Isajjxd-s •
The weather cold and rainy.
with a storm within.
Lat 51° 41'
But what is a storm without compared
Although the howling winds rush madly on
and the contending of the mighty elements bespeaks all nature In
a turmoil Yet if the Sun of righteousness shine upon our soul all
is calm peace and quiet.
But If he hide his face Satan ralies
his forces and sets them In array against us and the turmoil
within is more to be dreaded than the contending of the mighty
�Feb. 8, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
elements.
Page 30
0 the blessed hope of immortality when we shall be
freed from the storms of temptation.
When these gloomy doubts
and fears shall distress the soul no more, but our joy shall be
full and our happiness complete forever and ever.
A few rolling
Suns and the batle is over(?) persevere till death and a crown
is sure.
This afternoon we have spoken [to] the ship Edward 4 1 / 2
months out from Hudson N York on a whaling voyage.
We were very
much in hopes to have sent letters by her to America.
being in pursuit of a whale could not stop.
But she
So our hopes were
disipoited [disappointed]. And our good friends who were on deck
with their letters in their hands were obliged to return below and
wait for another vesel.
We also have passed very near several
small Islands so near that we could discover the trees and rocks
and it was indeed gratifying to the eye after being on the water
for 8 weeks to behold something that reminded us of our own native
h i l l s -------------------------
Thursday Feb 9th
178 miles.
Lat 52°50' Long 68°42'
distance sailed
We are now about two days sail from the Cape with a
good wind and fine weather.
of whales but caught none.
\ax^e^
This morning we have seen -hu-g-e shoals
I was very favribly [favorably] reminded
of that passage in Job where he is spoken.of as making the deep
boil like a pot of ointment he maketh his path to shine after
him.
one would think the deep livihg/?). Jhe :'xLlustrations of the
bible are very striking and beautiful.
�Feb. 10, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Friday Feb 10th
sailed 88 miles.
Page 31
Lat 53°,56'. Lon 64° 52' distance
I have been somewhat Indisposed to day In
consequence of taking cold.
How frail is human nature constantly
exposed to pain and sickness.
Let us be touched by the finger of
the Almighty and we are laid low.
Yet while In the enjoyment of
health we sport along forgetful of our frailty.
Till God In
mercy reminds us of it That we may remember that this is notl
our home - - Just before sun set went on deck to take a view of the
land which lie streched along West South West of our course.. The
shore is in full view and the soil seemed covered with a sort of
course grass, distant mountains were towering in raged [ragged]
peaks to the clouds and the Sun just sinking behind a distant
hill made me almost imagine that I was on some shore of my be
loved America.
Saturday Febuary 11th
sailed 84 miles.
Lat 55°11' long 65°,30’ distance
During the night we have passed the Sts between
Staten land and Tere del Fuego In safety.
And now we behold the
Sun throwing his silver rays on the rag[g]ed mountains, the atmos
phere clear and serene.
The Ocean almost a perfect calm with
scarce a breath to ruffle its glassy surface and our vesel setting
like a beautiful Swan upon the waters.
And while gazing at the
near shore as it lie streched along on the east almost as far as
the eye could reach and the rough and broken scenery beyond now
rising Into hills covered by coarse moss, then towering Into.lofty
mountains presenting their bold and rugged heads already painted
by.Aurora golden beam above the lofty clouds. Then swining [swinging]
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Feb. 11, 1837
Page 32
my eyes to the opposite, Nothing but the liquid deep spread out
before me, bounded by the deep blue of the clear horison, I was
so lost in delight that I seemed riveted to the spot and could
scarce turn my eyes off from beholding the scene.
Sabbath noon Feb 12th
sailed 106 miles.
Lat 56°18T Long 67°52’
distance
The Cape with which we have associated so much
danger is in full view and we are sailing around it with a smooth
osrd
sea and a fair wind, no HH-l--wind— but moderately cold.
strikingly manifest is the goodness of the Lord.
0 how
It seems as
if his special presence had been with us all the way as it was
with his people ofrold when he led them up from Egypt to the land
of promise.
I hope that we shall not be left tofeel that
we are
the favourites of Heaven, and thereby provoke God to visit us ac
cording to our just deserts [desserts].
This has been a day of
but litle spiritual enjoyment so we notwithstanding that I am
loaded with his blessings yet my heart is cold.
It seems as if
my heart would continualy overflow with gratitude and as if nothing
but praise would burst forth from my lips.
confused.
But I am ashamed and
0 how ungrateful, when shall I love thee as I ought.
0 never till freed from this frail tenement of clay,
my soul
shall range the ethereal world of bliss where sin can never tempt
me more.
Our exercises were holden below.
Ives from Revelation 33 20v.
knock §c. §c.
Sermon by Brother
Behold I stand at the door and
The plan of salvation was clearly presented and
siners tenderly invited to open the door of their hearts and
let the Saviour in.
0 why will they be so bent upon their own
ruin as to refuse such infinite condescension.
At three had our
�Journal, Lois. S.H. Johnson
bible exercise as usal.
Feb. 12, 1837
enjoyed it much.
Met sisters L and V
[Lafon and VanDuzee] for our social season of prayer.
heart a litle warmed and felt refreshed.
Page 33
got my
In the evening had our
prayer':meeting and was not a little rejoyced to hear our Captain
get up and speak for Christ and tell |us] what God had done for his
soul.
Monday Feb 13th
124 miles.
Lat 59°17T Long 69°35t distance sailed
The weather cold.
Sea rough,
sick from the motion of the vesel.
many of our company
Have been reflecting on the
present state of religion as it exists And comparing it with
primitive days, And find that so much worldly ambition, Pride and
unholy motive actuate the professing children of God.
I cant but
conclude that there is great reason to fear and tremble lest God
remove his candlestick from this people and raise him up a people
to serve him who shall know and glorify his name --
Teusday Febuary 14th
tance sailed 120 miles.
Lat 58°, 22!.
--
-- - - -
Long^ 72°33T
dis
The motion of the vesel Is so violent to
day that we can neither write nor study much.
Some of our 'sisters
ventured on deck and got a showering by the breaking of a wave
which came rushing down the companion way as if we were about to
be swept away.
Wednesday Feb. 15th
sailed 125 miles.
Lat 57°36' Long 74° 9 T
Still cold and rough.
distance
We have doubled the
cape and begin to feel as if we were Indeed setting our faces
towards our place of destination.
The strange land In which we
�Feb. 15, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H.4"'Johnson
Page 34
are to find our new home - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Thursday Feb 16th
Lat 55°35'
Long 74° 58'
distance
sailed 123 miles.. Went on deck for exercise with sister M, fell
into conversation with Dr. Lafon about the low standard of piety.
Had an interesting and hope useful conversation.
Spent a short
time in prayer with sister M., found sweet enjoyment.
0 how
merciful is our Heavenly Father when we repent and return to him
so ready to forgive our sins and lift on us the smile of his love.
How can I be so base as to wander from him and grieve his blessed
spirit.
But 0 my treacherous heart.
When I would do good evil
is present with me.
Friday Feb 17th.
166 miles.
Lat 53°56! Long 78°46' distance sailed
I have to day felt stupid in body and mind.
an uncomfortable being.
0 I am
I am astonished at Myself and can but
adore the goodness of God.
Nothing but divine grace can bear up
my desponding soul.
Saturday Febuary 18th
125 m.
Lat 52°47
Long 81°9'
distance
The Sisters have enjoyed the priviledges of a united in a
prayer meeting this afternoon.
This is the first time we have
enjoyed a season like this since we have been on board, there
being obstacles in the way which are now removed.
All our sis
ters except three who were deprived the priveledge by sickness.
It was a precious season and I trust our hearts were warmed by
the Holy spirit.
�Journal, Lois S'.II. Johnson
Sunday Feb 19th
sailed.
1st 16v.
Feb. 19, 1837
Lat 51° 42’
Services below to day.
Long 83'° 43T
cSermon by Dr. Lafon.
Page 35
132 miles
Text Romans
I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ for It is the
power of salvation to every one which believeth.
He presented
the precious gospel of which the Apostle was not ashamed.with
feeling and clearness and I trust the spirit of the Lord Is not
yet wholey removed from us.
encourageing.
The meeting in Forecastle was very
Three of the sailors came out and spoke for Christ.
And we trust that like Mary have indeed chosen the better part
which will never be taken from them.
0 may the Lord strengthen
them and make them abound in e^ery good work-been very sick to day.
Sister Lafon has
May her heavenly Father sanctify this
sickness to her and cause her to come forth like gold refined and
purified from all dre>5^ v
I looked forward to this Sabbath, hoping that I should
have a day of pure enjoyment.
in my soul.
But It has been a day of darkness
A view of my wicked heart has led me to feel as If
God had hid his face from me and to feel as If It would be just
In him to cut me off.
of pardoning mercy.
But blessed be his name that he is a God
And does he permit one so unworthy to be
numbered with his servants In his vinyard.
0 let me ever bless
and praise his name.
Monday Febuary 20th
miles.
Lat 49°54'
Long 84°
sailed 108
Spent most of last night In watching with a sick sister -
felt It a priviledge to deny myself a litle rest if by that I might
relieve the distress of a dear suffering friend.
and misery this short life Is
h & i r ' t e>O
v
0 how much pain
And is it that evil
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Feb. 20, 1837
Page 36
and bitter thing sin which has entailed this legacy upon us and
must we inherit it till death.
Till death did I say.
evil consequences stop not there.
If they did It would be tolerable.
What are a few brief days of suffering.
but a eternity,
But 0 if
They will soon be past
how can we endure an everlasting suffering but
we have entailed It upon ourselves,
and we canot [cannot] atone for It
jct^W
we have broken Gods holy
how then can we escape.
0
yes God saw our extremity and he has opened a new and living way.
Christ has died and in his death has bourne the sins of the whole
world and we through faith In his name may escape the just penalty
of the law and instead of lying down in eternal wo[e] as was our
just doom We may rise to a state of perfect and everlasting bliss.
0 gloriuos love.
Shall we count anything so dear for Christ. Dear
Saviour make me entirely thine And I ask no more.
death I will not fear.
Come life come
I will rejoice in thee.
A suden noise on deck and runing and hollowing [hollering]
of the sailors together with the rolling and rocking of our little
vesel convince us that there is a storm.
main sail has been rent In peices(I).
The‘:"wind is violent the
But our Heavenly Father
who rules the winds and waves can keep us in perfect safety.
Teusday Febuary 21st
sailed 133 miles.
Lat 47° 56'
Long 83° 3’ distance
The storm still continues and there is so much
motion we can neither write or exercise.
Wednesday Febuary 22d
sailed 140 miles.
Lat 45° 34'
Longitude 83" distance
It still continues very unpleasant and we are
obliged to keep below.
many of our company have experienced a
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
return of sea sickness.
Feb. 22, 1837
all need exercise.
Page 37
And we do not profit
by our studies as we should if we could enjoy more exercise - - -
Thursday Febuary 23d
sailed 150 miles.
Lat 43° 14' long 81° 11T
distance
This day is set apart by the churches In our
land for fasting and prayer for a desent [descent] of the Holy
Spirit on the Coledges and Semnaryies of our beloved America, That
fto Id/'t
the youth there mole^te-d and s'oiling up the hill of Science That
they may climb the mount Zion at the same time and be prepared to
sound the trump of the everlasting gospel on the watch tower there
of.
We have observed the day on board ship.
in our rooms.
Spent the morning
At 2 PM had a prayer meeting in the cabin and also
in the evening.
Friday Febuary 24th
sailed 150 miles.
Lat 41° 12T
long 82° 45’
It is indeed a delightful morn,
distance
the clouds have
dispersed the sky is clear anc^erene, the air soft and mild.
And
■fee glorious king of day arising from his watery bed welcomes In
the day.
0 that the Sun of righteousness would disperse the dark
-Pe.oA'
clouds of doubt and f^eem which brood over my soul and let the king
of everlasting day enter -------------------- :
--------
Saturday Febuary 25th
Latitude 37°45'
Long 82° 9'
distance sailed 108 miles.
Time with untiring step has brought
o
us to another Saturday eve and the long list of sins both of ^mision.'
and comlsion of this week are about to be sealed up for the gredt day
of reckoning.
Grant 0 my Heavenly Father that they may be canceled
by the blood of my Redeemer - - - - - - - - -
--
�Feb. 26, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Sabbath Febuary 26th
sailed 130 miles.
Lat 37° 291 long 81° 42
This has been a precious day.
Page 38-
distance
We have had
two sermons to day and and (!) may the Lord grant his blessing
Upon the truth delivered and make it effectual.
morning by Brother Bliss.
Thesalonians 5. 19v.
13th 24v.
Text Genesis 6. C.. 3d v and 1st of
In the afternoon by Brother Conde from Luke
In the morning we
shall not always strive
the blessed spirit.
Sermon.In the
were told that God has said his spirit
with man.
And admonished not to quench
In the afternoon that the gate which leads
to Heaven Is strait and
that many will seek to enter in and not
be able,
give ourselves rest till we know for a
"^hen shall we
certainty whether we are in the narrow way which leads to eternal
life.
Indeed I do not wish to rest and I pray that I may not till
this point be setled In my own breast.
And 0 my Heavenly Father
If I am deceived on every other point.
Forbid that I should be
In this.
Monday Febuary 27th
106)
Lat 36° 18T
We have fine weather again.
Long 83. 12' (Sailed
I was reminded of a May moring(!)
by the soft and salubrious air while on deck this morning.
But
felt as If it was wanting in some of the sweetest charms which
characterises a New England May Morn.
One of which is the beauti
ful green verdure and the sweet musick of the feathered songsters.
But the--works of God are beautiful and show forth his wisdom and
goodness in all parts of his Universe.
And while charmed with
the beauty of this fallen world which is moved by sin and groans
under the curse of God I have been led to reflect on the all glorious
beauty of Heaven, Which bears trace of sins blasting breath.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Teusday Febuary 28th
Feb. 28j 1837
Lat 34° 461
miles saild) . Health not very good to day.
to maloncholy(!) without knowing why.
Page 39
Long 85° 5' (119
And feel rather inclindd
I find a. very close connexion
between my mind and body. If one suffers the other sympathises - - - Teusday eve we have new encouragement to stimulate us.
The brothers who went to the Forecastle for for (!) prayers with
the Sailors say they have not had so solem a meeting before.
The
Stewart [Steward] Is very anxious again and a spirit of prayer
seems to rest down.
0 that we may yet see greater displays of
Gods power In converting siners than we have ever yet seen - - - -
Wednesday March 1st
sailed 56 miles.
Lat 34° 14’
Long 85° 451
We are again enjoying Sumer heat.
distance
Light and
airy clouds flit accross our horison here and there obscuring its
mellow hue.
solem.
Wednesday eve. Our prayer meeting has been unusaly
surely the Lord is in this place and we witness his stately
goings.
0 that we might hide ourselves In the dust.
does his glorious work.
While he
One of the Sailors Induldging a hope
arose and addressed us and told us what the Lord had done for
his soul and invited his young friends to come to Christ.
how cheering to hear new born souls speaking forth.
of God.
And another soul is rejoycing in hope.
0
the"'praises
He says he loves
the Saviour and loves every body.a all is peace and quiet now In
his soul.
Before all was dark and he could find no happiness.
0 shall not we rejoyce?
Angels tune their harps to a louder nobler
strain over repenting siners and shall not our hearts swell with
praise to God for his wonderful mercy?
I will call upon my soul
and all that Is within me to magnify his great and holy name.
�Journal, Lois S,H. Johnson
0 my soul is full.
March 1, 1837
Page 40
Gladly would I stay In a frame like this.
If
God can so fill our soul here what will our enjoyment in Heaven
be where our capacities will be enlarged for the reception of an
infinite greater degree.
I feel as If to spend this night in rejoyc-
Ing in the Lord and praising him for his goodness would be a precious
priviledge.
Thursday March 2d
sailed 60 miles.
Lat 33°
37’
Long 86° 10’
distance
I arose early this morning and went on deck to
admire the infinite beauty and loveliness manifested in the works
of God.
Calm and peaceful was the mighty Pacific as if lulled
'wvov'i'n^
to repose and the gentle Zephyr playing over it just -erwrntb-n-g(?)
its glassy surface Into little riplets as If faning its slumbers
to make them more sweet.
And Heavens arched vault seemed painted
in a deeper hue In which still lingered the pale queen of night
as If to welcome the return of the glorious king of day who had
already decked the chambers of the East with curtains of gold
And now comes forth like a Bridegroom rejoycing In his strength.
Have had a few moments conversation with the First Mate on the
all Important subject of his souls concern and think I discover
in him a secret feeling that all Is not right.
May the Lord con
vince him of his guilt and show him his only refuge - - - - - - -
Friday March 3d
108 miles.
Lat 33° 45’
Long 88° 12
distance
Last eve when assembled around our eMening altar for
worship, We were led to Throngs of grace by our Captain.
this morning by the Second Mate.
the Lord has wrought.
And
We could but exclaim, See what
0 the power and goodness of the Lord.
He
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
March 3, 1837
Page 41
can bring stuborn hearts low And perfect to himself praise from
the lips of the scorner - - - - - - - - -
Saturday March 4th
L'at 32° 54T
Long 89° 251
sailed
miles (!)
I have been busily engaged In sewing for one of the Sisters to day
and have spent the day quite pleasantly.
I think relaxation to the
mind very mecesary and fear that we are not Inclined to take enough.
This week have met In Sister Knaps [KnappTs] roomhhere(?) and sister
Vanduze[e] for prayer.
We have had precious seasons and I trust
the Lord has been with us.
Sabbath March 5th
189 miles.
Lat 31° 48'
long 91° 46'
With joy we welcome In the holy Sabbath.
sailed
Sweet day
that saw my Lord arise When he triumphed over death and came forth
victorious.
Sermonrby Brother Ives this morning from these words
Paul may plant and Apolos water but God alone can give the Increase.
The Sailors were present and heard with a great degree of solemnity.
In the afternoon Sermon by Dr. Lafawn [Lafon] from 1st of Corinthians
3d c. 13 14 15 verses.
The sailors not all present.
abscented
themselves probably from opposition of heart to the truth.
Poor
souls, they do not consider the worth of their immortal souls and
that if they perish they alone must |?ear It.
0 that the Lord would
send conviction to their hearts and show them their guilt before
they go down to eternal death.
Time is precious and I fear if they
neglect the present opportunity that they will be found among those
who in the great day will call upon the rocks and hills to hide
them from the face of the Lamb --- --Meeting in the evening solem and Interesting.
one of
�March 5, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Page 42
the young converts arose and exhorted his impenitent friends to
come to Christ to give themselves no rest till they come to the
Saviour and find him precious to their souls.
Monday March 6th
miles.
Lat 30°55T Long 92° 2 r distance 96
The air is fine and the weather delightful and the Lord
is still prospering us on our way and multipling(I) our blessings
day by day.
prayers.
Boston.
This morning our Captain took the lead in our family
How different his feelings from those with which he left
Then he could hear prayer not because he delighted in it
on the being to whom it was offered but for civility sake. Now he
can pray to God because he loves him and feels it his priveledge.
May the Lord make him strong in every good work.
We are looking
forward with interest to our Monthly Concert this eve when we hope
to mingle our prayers with our beloved friends in our dear America
around the mercy sent for that
one great object the conversion
of a dying world — ------- ----- -----
Teusday March 7th
Lat 29 28
I have spent the morning in writing
Long 93 34
sailed 111 miles
to my beloved friends and it
seemed almost like seeing them for it brings up so many assosiations
that I almost feel as if I were in their presence.
It Is indeed a
precious priviledge for which with my other innumerable blessings
I would desire to be grateful.
It is a connecting link which binds
together all rations through this medium although we may be separated
by trackless oceans.
yet we can converse with our friends and by
the pen bring them so near as almost to taste the sweet enjoyment
of their society.
In what Infinite benevolence and wisdom has God
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
ordered all things.
March 7, 1837
Let my soul praise him.
tranquil day both within and without.
Page 43
This has been a
This morning we had family
worship on deck In order to give the sailors an opportunity to
be present.
And I could not but feel Impressed, with the.sublimity
of the men, as I looked about and beheld all except one or two on
duty, collected on deck, with an awning spread over our heads to
shield us from the direct rays of the sun, and the broad ocean
spread out around us speaking forth in language more eloquent than
tounge [tongue] can utter the sublimity and greatness of him whom
we had met to worship and then to see.
our Captain stand In the
center and read a chapter from Gods words and then a hymn to be
sung and then to see the sailors, while brother Bailey led us to the
throne of Grace, bow their heads In the atitude of worshipers.
0
that every heart may become a true worshiper and stand around the
throne of God and sing the never ending song of praise.
I think
I desire these souls but how little do I feel In comparison to
what I aught.
0 how little of that benevolence which filled a
Saviours heart when he spent whole nights In prayers to God and
when he sweat as it were great drops of blood In the garden of
Gethsemane for the sins of the world.
Wednesday March 8th
I have just wandered on fancys
Lat 28° Long 95° 20’ sailed 127 mile
airy flight back to my dear native
land for a moment and felt all the suden associations connected::,
thdf ewath/spfihgiSg'’up- in my'breast and remembered the parting
tears of my dear Mother and Sister and was led to inquire would
ye return again to them that ye may enjoy their love.
But no as
well as I love my dear friends, I cannot find a desire to go back
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
March 8, 1837
Page 44
and although I find myself 13,245 miles from my native shore yet
no tear of regret starts from my eye.
Do my dear Mother when you
read this Infur from It that I do not love you as well [as] I used
to.
It Is not so never did my friends seem dearer.
But If I may
but have the meanest place In the vinyard of the Lord Is It not
worth all my sacrafices, yea?
priviledges.
I count them not sacrafices but
And though I never meet you again, I will look for
ward to a glorious meeting in Heaven.
there we shall meet our
other dear friends which have gone before us and perhaps relate
to each other the scenes of this life.
And I desire to have my
thoughts much on that heavenly home and consider myself a stranger
and pilgrim here on earth wishing to have my affections in Heaven.
Thursday March 9th
159 miles.
Lat 26°.10T
long 97°.30'
distance
Another soul trusts that he has found the Saviour,
may
he not rest till, [he] rests on the sure foundation and nothing shall
be able to take it from him.
He is a comon Sailor but Is a man
of liberal education and good natural talent.
A German by birth.
e Y A l 7\ c C t ( > "
He has been active in endeavoring to dis orfLminate universal sen
timents among his associates and last Sabbath he Instead of coming
and listing [listening] to the truth he collected together several
of his -impenitent friends and endeavoured to confirm them in this
belief.
Yesterday and last night he was in an agony for his sin
and cried out what shall I do to be saved.
This morning he feels
peace of mind and trust that he has found a Saviuur.
May the Lord
make him as faithful advocate for himself as he has been for Satan.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
March 10th
March 10, 1837
Lat 29° 54'
Saturday March 11th
138.
Long 99° 20
Lat 23° 11T
Page 45
sailed 130 miles.
Long 100° 43T distance
Another week has rooled [rolled] around and we are still
alive floating along on the mighty deep.
the Lord^is with us.
to God.
We still'trust that
0 for more humility more entire consecration
I think I long after the salvation of these precious souls
and feel as if I could not give up the point till I see their feet
planted on the rock of ages.
in comparison.
But how cold and faint are my desires
0 for such a view of the souls worth as shall make
me cry out in an agony to God for them.
0 God save us or we perish;
vain is the help of man.
Sabbath March 12th
Services on deck.
20 v.
Lat 21. 26T
Long 102°. 12 (147 miles)
r
Sermon by Brother Bliss from Co\inthians 5 c.
All were solem but do not know as there is any new cases
of conviction.
5 c. 20 v.
Sermon in the afternoon by Brother Conde from James
And he gave us a very excelent sermon.
He told us what
would be some of the evidences of true conversion and the fruits it
would lead to.
And thus while the Christian was fed the note of
alarm was sounded in the Siners ear.
May the Holy Spirit accompany
it with divine power and make it the Savior of life unto life to
everyone which heard it.
The First Mate is still anxious about
his soul but will not come to Christ that he might have life.
Says
that he has been a great siner, does not deserve mer[c]y and so
seems to rest there.
May the Lord have mercy upon his poor soull
although he has no mercy upon himself, and save him from everlasting
woe.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Monday March 13th.
March 13, 1837
Lat 19° 44'
Page 46
Long 104,21! (159 miles
We are rapidly sailing over the sea which seperates us from our
destined port
in another point of view we arerrapidly sailing
ovelr] the sea of life and nearing the port of eternity.
Will Christ
be In our pilot boat to lead us In to the haven of Heaven.
0 how
Importante(!)’that we so live as to get an assureance of hope.
This is our priviledge and duty and why rest short of it.
ctrncL
God is
willing that we shall enjoy it nadr will grant It to those who live
above the world.
Heavenly Father I desire to renew my consecra
tion to thee and pray thee accept the unworthy sacrafice § wilt
thou keep me near thee § let me never rest till I feel an assureance
that I am thine, § then can I hope to do something for the upbuilding
of thy cause.
But what can a weak trembling doubting Christian do?
who Is mourning continualy ove[r] his own fearful condition.
0
he will do nothing unless strengthed(!) by God but dishonour his
great and holy name.
Went on deck after prayer meeting to enjoy the cool even
ing breeze § how enchanting the scene tongue cannot describe its
loveliness.
Psalm.
I can only adopt the Language as uttered in the 19th
Had some conversation with the First Mate upon his souls
concern § he seems to talk like one exerciseing repentance and
faith.
And- I returned below rejoycing, To plead with God that
he would search his heart and not suffer him to rest on a false
hope § deceive himself.
God knows his heart and may he not not (!)
suffer him to rest short of the rock of ages —
Teusday March 14
Thermometer 78°.
Lat 17° 43'
—
—
—
— —
—
Long 106 10' ) 188 miles
0 how bus'sy[BusyC?)] is that dark(?) apostate
—
�Journal, Lois S.Hi Johnson
March 14, 1837
who is an enimy to all righteousness.
Page 47
He seeing souls here anxious
about their souls has set his powers in array to destroy them §
has artfuly seized Religion to the very thing with which he means
d d.'X^qyt
to do it.
May the Lord de£ent_[_d-esfenrd] him § overrule all things
for his g l o r y ----------------- :-- —
Wednesday March 15th
165 miles.
Lat 15° 51' Long 108° 12' distance
The air, close and sultry this morning.
oppressive in. our state rooms.
Find it quite
Have spent the day in secular em
ployment .
Wednesday eve.
Have enjoyed our prayer meeting very much;
and think I have found sweet enjoyment in coming to the mercy
seat.
Precious priviledges that we may flee to the Throne of Grace
at all times § find there a friend who can be touched by a feeling
of our infirmities.
Thursday March 16th
122 miles.
Calm and beautiful.
Lat 14
40T
Long 109° 30' sailed
Our company have removed to the
deck to day § it presents a buisy scene indeed.
Could our beloved
friends just see us as we are now occupied in our little happy
world on this great ocean They would almost envy us our happiness.
For I do not believe it posible to find a spot on earth presenting
a more interesting view.
all happy, all buisy, and the glow of
health; and smile of content;
tenance.
forth in almost every coun
and alfhoUgh gathered to-gether from various parts of
the earth; diferently educated § having imbiled different views
Yet dewling [dwelling] together in brotherly love.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
March 17, 1837
Friday March 16th [i.e. 17]
Page 48
Lat 13° 19’ Long-1100
26’ (98 [miles]
Last night we had quite a reffreshing shower.
seemed £ina-e-(?) and delightful after it.
We also had another
shower during the night and some hail accompanied it.
biht 1 7
fine this morning.
The air
The air very
Have been buisily engaged in w^-sh-irc^ today.
Have felt for a few days as if the spirit of prayer was declineing.
The spirit seems to be stayed and souls are not converted.
the Lord seems to be hovering over us
Spirit from us.
Yet
he has not removed his
It seems as If God-was in waiting to see If we
will repent and humble ourselves and offer the pryaer of faith
for these souls.
shall we do it or let these precious souls go
down to death because these rwho
profess to love God
neglect
to offer for them the prayer of f a i t h ---------- After tea went on deck for exercise.
Husband went aloft
and droped his watch which was a valuable one overboard.
The
thought struck me Immediately as I saw It fall, I have reason to
bless God that it was not my dear Husband.
I will not trouble about
the watch, the Lord
well.
all things and doeth all things
dajt~ble^- oil
the silver and gold and *Gu-tb-l-eT or a thousand hills are
his § we and all that we are and all that we have were thine,
help us at all times to hold it at thy disposal.
And while we live
may we serve thee with obedient hearts and willing hands § may we
bind thy commandments to our hearts and may they be sweeter than
the honey comb.
Saturday March 18th
miles.
Lat 11°.54’
Long 111. 54’. distance 122
Again I feel reminded of the rapidity with which time
�Journal., Lois S.H. Johnson
March 18, 1837
flies by the return of another Saturday afternoon.
Page 49
one day after
another passes away and we are buisy in gathering flowers which
will quickly fade.
Not keeping in mind that life is made up of
these little portions and before we are aware of it the night of
death will be upon us.
Let us be wise § pluck also those flowers
which bloom only in eternity § forever exhale theirs odours with
increasing fragrance.
Sunday March 19th
102 miles.
Lat 10
95'
The services on deck today.
from 2 Peter 3d 18v Grow in grace.
Long 13
6'
distance
Sermon by Brother Ives
He presented the the (!) subject
in a very clear maner telling us what were some of the hindrances
to our growth in grace § the necesity of a close watch over our
hearts § near communion with God - - - - - - In the afternoon Sermon by Dr. Lafawn-from Hebrews 9c 27v
It is appointed unto all men once to die after death the judgement.
In a sollem and impressive maner proved to us that men do not re
ceive their punishment here for their sins § that there must be a
day coming In the world will be judged.
For example he says now
for instance if a man commits an hundred murders now if one murder
deserves death how is he to be punished for the 99.. He says per
haps It will be answered that they are punished by horror of conscience.
But the reply Is No!
before half that number is commited the
indivenal [individual])?) ] will delight to imbone his hands in thee
blood of his fellow creature.
that there must be a future
and punishments.
that heard It.
The argument was full and conclusive
judgement and also future rewards
May it prove a saviour of life unto life to all
�Journal, Lois S .K . Johnson
March 19, 1837
Page 50
after services we were conversing upon it § the Captain
related' a circumstance which fell under his observation in Valpariso.
The murderer was an Italian a fine noble looking man §
had commited several murders § this man which he killed and for which
he was afterwards executed was also a noble looking*nman at mechanick.
He met him in a shop § spoke to him.
He said it occured to him
while he stood there that he should like to stick his knife into
him. that he should like to see his blood run § accordingly he
followed him out § to a bye place § came up and spoke to him 8
took out his knife and thrust it in his shoulder and reached his
heart --
I could but exclaim what has restraining grace done
were it not for this what would the world be.
of (!) the heart.
0 the depravity of
If left to ourselves Man. would delight in the 1
death of his brother.
0 humiliating thought.
How glorious the
plan of salvation just fitted to our lost condition.
to our dear Saviour.
We owe all
This has been a sollem and interesting day
to me - - - - - -
Monday March 20th
Lat 7° 4 ’
It has been a day of spiritual languor.
long 114° 10’ sailed 138.
My sins have hid my
Fathers face Ji-etw&en a Holy dove return and sit § warm my heart (?) /
Teusday March 21st
Wednesday March 22d
o
Lat 5
581
Lat 4° 46’
Long 116° 44’ distance 180
Long 118° 58
distance 180
By calculating the distance that we havessailed, we find it to
be 13,475 miles.
We are fast advanceing a Heathen shore, soon if
the Lord still prospers us, we shall step on foot on that strange
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
March 22, 1837
Page 51
land; § hear the voices of a strange tonugue (!'),. a people which
worship not God.
we may
0 may we be filled with the Holy Spirit, that
them the way of eternal life, § thereby know that
blessed cause for which we have left our own shores. --------Wednesday March 22d.
187.
Lat 4° 46T
Long 178° 59T distance
Never'did I more fully realize the value of time.
every
moment seems precious, § I can hardly find time to write a few
lines In this day by day.
This leads me to reflect upon the mul
tiplicity of cares which will In a few days devolve upon me.
much is crowded into the short space of life.
How
It becometh us to
improve this short hour for on it hang results as sollem as eternity.
Thursday March 23d
1^0.
Lat 3° 6T
Long 120° 58T
distance
Last evening prayer meeting as usal.r And the young converts
took a front.
One of which is our German, a young man of fine
natural talents, § weel [well] educated but one who has been, as
Is often termed a wild fellow, § one who had great influence over
his companions exhorted them affectionately to come to Christ.
He is about 23 years of age.
Left his country about 5 years since
§ has been to sea during that time.
He is acquainted with five
different languages § I trust, the Lord has something for him to
do, § that he will be enabled to concecrate all his tallents §
learning, to that cause, he has done so much to injure.
Our hearts
are cheered, while we behold the pleasing evidence around us, that
the Lord has commenced a work of grace in some hearts here, which
but a short time since were dead In sin § desined not a knowledge
of God § had resolved that they would not listen to any warnings
from his children.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Fri-day March 24th
March 23, 1837
Page 52
Lat 1° 26’ long 122° 23.
Feel as if the spirit of the Lord had withdrawn from us § why is
it.
Siners which for a time felt that they had precious souls
to save or lose now have become careless § turn a deaf ear.
Let
us each one turn our thoughts within and examine our own hearts
§ repent and confess our sins before God who is faithful to forgive sins.
sW ts
That these souls perish not § our s4ein-s be found
stained with their blood - - - - -
Saturday March 25th
miles.
Lat 00
18’
Long 124° dls. 110
Our little band of brothers § Sisters in view of our past
unfaithfulness have unitedly agreed to keep this day as a day of
self examination § prayer before God.
0 we have reason to take the
lowest place In the dust § to repent In sackcloth and ashes.
May
we take words In our mouths § return and may the Lord pardon our
sins § pour(?) us out a blessing till there shall not be room to
receive It.
Sabbath March 26th.
Lat 0° 48T
Long. 125° 24’ distance 112.
The stillness of all around; reminds us of the return of the holy
Sabbath, § with it, a charm of holy joy.
In as much as the plan
of salvation was more glorious than the creation; § as Christ was
the first first first fruits of the reserection so now Is the first
day more glorious than the seventh.
Brother Bliss preached In the
morning from Acts 24c 25v. Go thy way for this time when I have a
convienient (!) time I will call for.thee.
It Is to be feared that
many have thus excused themselves till It is forever to late; and
I fear § tremble lest this may be the case, with some of this crew.
�Journal, Lois, S.H.. Johnson
March 26, 1837
Our Brother gave us a sermon rich with truth fj argument.
Page 53
And I
humbly hope that the Lord will bless the truth spoken, without the
influences of the Holy Spirit the truth falls powerless to the
ground - - - - In the afternoon sermon by Brother Conde from Matthew
6c lOv.
Thy kingdom come, we had a sollem § interesting meeting;
§ think there is evidence that the spirit has not yet taken his
flight.
Prayer meeting in the evening sollem § interesting.
Monday March 27th;
34 long 126° 82'
distance 110 miles.
We have a vertical sun to day and find it very warm.
But I have
suffered much less than I anticipated.
our Heavenly Father has
tempered his winds to his shorn lambs.
I have had a sweet season
in our little.prayer meeting with Sister Vanduze„§ am cheered by
the inteligence that another soul have given his heart to Christ.
He is an interesitng young man about 19 § is a Dane.
May it
indeed prove that he has become a new creatuer(!) in Christ §
may he know God § exercise faith in Christ.
Teusday March 28th
miles, then 82.
Lat 2° Long 127.59! distance 95
We have resolve to make it our object to spend
a a (!) part of this day to pray-:for a preperation of heart to
enter into that feild(!) of labour to which we are now begining
to anticipate as near to us.
0 how much grace humility § love
for the Heathen we kneed to enter upon that blessed work.
0 may
we be enabled to trust in the promises of the Lord § go forward
in his strength - - - - The weather warm § sultry with the appearance of showers.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
March 28, 1837
I have been much interested in viewing a water spout.
something altogether new to me.
Page 54
It was
A black cloud was seen hanging
low in the horison § from this the spout proceeded in the form of
a trumpet reaching almost to the water the
from the douds.
and proceeding
From the water was seen directly under it a nother (!)
clouds ariseing(?) of a different form § almost meeting the one.
hanging over it apparently about to unity § pour down by one great
stream the contents of the cloud into the great deep.
Wednesday March 29th
149.
Some
Lat 3° 35’ Long 125° 39T distance
A Fine breeze this morning,
of our sisters are engaged
we are sailing rapidly along.
in making a
bethel flag to announce
our arrival at the Islands. May our hearts also be prepared §
?
an open set before us. And may our Father guide us safely there.
My health has.rather suffered for a few days' in consequence of
the heat.
Every slight indisposition reminds us of our mortality.
§ I desire to keep it in mind that I may watch and pray § be in
readiness to meet our Lord at any hour, that I may be prepared
to enter into his i^est. Dying is only going home to the Christian.
Thursday March 30th
The air
Lat 5° 35TN Long 131° 8T dis 131 miles
close § oppressive with
Thursday eve.
appearances
of showers.
We have had a fine shower this eve.
the
air is cool § refreshing - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Saturday Aprile 1st
two days past, cool § cloudy.
It still remains as it has been for
We enjoy it very much.
around with an unaccountable rapidity.
Time moves
another week has fled away
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 1, 1837
§ my unprofitable life is still lengthened out.
this evening quite Interesting.
Page 55
Prayer meeting
0 that these precious souls which
are still, enimies to God would become reconciled through Jesus
Christ.
Lat 9°
Long 134° 58T dis 166 miles.
Sunday Aprile 2d
Lat 10° 16T
The weather still remains cloudy § cool.
Long 137° 9' dis 174 miles
Sermon this morning from
Mat. 5c 14th v( Ye are the light of the world.
The Christian is
truly the light of the world § if their light be darkness how great
Is that darkness - - - Sermon by Dr Lafawn In the afternoon from 1st of John
1st c. 7v. The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin.
was a precious sermon.
It
His first object was to show that the world
was suffering the curse of sin, § that that (!) the earth bears
marks of it.
From this, he reasoned that men being conscious of
their sin, were ready to do anything to atone for their sins but
just what they are required; this they are •..unwilling
to do, as
for example, tell a siner that he is guilty before God, § get him
to feel that he Is a siner, § he will immediately begin to try?, to
do something, to recomend him to God, tell him that he must repent,
§ bleive(!) on Jesus Christ.
0 he cant do that; But he is ready
to do anything to become a Christian, § he cant see why he is not.
The very reason Is, he is not willing to do what God requires of
him.
To Illustrate It he says, supposing a man is overboard, §
there Is no way for him to [be] saved, but by his regaining the
ship, And you throw him a rope, § tell him to take hold of the
rope, § he all the time keeps strugling, to keep upon the surface
of the water, § you tell [him] to grasp the rope, or he will be
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 2, 1837
Page 56
lost, he still refuses, but insists that he is doing all that he
can, So he is doing the best that he can to keep upon the surface
of the water, but all the while neglecting the only posible way of
escape.
Just so with the siner.
from all sin.
The blood of Jesus Christ, cleanes
Yet he will try every other way of escape, before
thisd§ thousands rather than come to Christ § take salvation, as
a free gift, choose to perish.
It is just here as in other places, the siners heart is
e
(?).-against God, § he does not like to hear the truth, §
will stay away ever, though he might hear it without pains.
How
strange that when life § death are set before us, that so many will
choose death rather than life.
Teusday April 4th
We are bourne rapidly along.
Lat 15° 19'
Long 142° 15! distance 188
Last evening we had an interesting
season of prayer for the conversion of the world.
we expect to spend on the water.
It is the last
Probably before another season'
rools [rolls] around we shall stand on heathen ground § witness
the degnegatbns (!) of heathenish darkness.
May the thousands
of prayers which assend in unison for these perishing souls be
had in .'remembrance before God § bring down his blessings
Wednesday April 5th.
186.
Lat 16° 10' Long 145° 3 T distance
cool and delightful, § the breath of Heaven is wafting us
swiftly along.
Wednesday eve.
We have had a precious meeting
this evening, once more these precious souls have been invited
to come to Christ.
can they again go away and slight them, §
�Journal, Lois S..H. Johnson
April 5, 1837
madly rush on to eternal death.
their condemnation —
April 7th
Page 57
if they perish how awful must be
---------—
Lat 19 40'
Long 151° 12' distance 212
Our vessel tires not, stops not, for the last 24 hours we have
sailed after the rate of 9 § 10 knots per hour.
expect to see the Islands.
getting ready to land.
To-morrow we
We are all in confusion here today
This together with the creaking § rock
ing of the ship unfits me for writing.
Saturday April 8th
Lat. 20. 42.
Long 154, 25 dis 202.
We have been anxiously watching, to catch a glimpse of those Isles,
to which we are bound; but in consequence of a smoky cloudy horison,
it has not yet become visible.
It is Saturday evening, And all seem
to be nearly in readiness, to take their departure, from the Mary
Frazier.
It may be also Saturday eve In our journey of life with
some of us, are we waiting for our sumons to eternity.
I fear
were this to be the case we might be taken by surprise.
says watch and pray for the Son of Man cometh in an hour.
Christ
ye think
not of.
This eve prayer meeting again.
Soon these precious priviledg
of assembling ourselves around this board where we have so often
mingled our vois.es in prayer § praise to God.
will still assend to God from this vessel.
But we trust prayer
The Captain and second
Mate have taken a decided stand on the side of Christ And their
hearts swell with benevolence for those around them.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 10, 1837
Page 58
Monday Noon [April 10] off Honolulu
Yesterday was the sabbath and one sollem as eternity, as the day
dawned upon us our eyes opened on the Islands of our destination.
We were In full view of Moloki(!) § passed so near it as to dis
cover Mr Hitchcocks dwelling,
there.
The American Missionary located
It was a framed house painted.
We also so [saw] two other
houses painted white one a meeting house provably(l) and the other
.a school house.
We also saw many Native huts along the shore.
The land along the shore is levevel(!) § presents a pleasant pros
pect.
the back ground is rugged and picturesque rising into baren
peaks then sinking into low vales covered with a lively green which
was delightful to the eye after beholding nothing but the broad
expanse of water spread out before us for four months.
It was a
lovely morning § we sailed along In sight of land watching the
distant waves as they dash and foam over the coral reef and die
on the distant shore.
Prayers below.
Morning service below.
Brother Bliss From 2 of Corvinthians 3d 23v.
on deck.
Oahu in full view.
Sermon was by
after service went
Thought it not expedient to have
our afternoon exercise till we come to anchor.
Oahu presents a
more fertile appearance than either of the other Islands which
we have passed yet its appearance was rugged and broken, some of
the peaks presenting the appearance of extinguished volcanoes §
no doubt they are for these Islands are all of volcanic origin.
Some of the peaks lying back are clothed with forest.
as we
sailed along the beautiful groves of cocoa trees with natives
houses intespersed(!) among them.
Honolulu.
about 2 we came In view of
I was disapointed somewhat In the appearance of Hono-
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
lulu.
April 10, 1837
Page 59
It Is very natural for us to picture in immagination places
which we have never seen, and as often fail In forming a right Idea.
Honolulu is situated on a level plain extended along the shore,
the back ground is broken, covered with green forest or shrubery,
I 'could not tell which.
inhabitants.
The vilage contains a few thousand of
Two meeting houses one of which is painted white
and has a steeple.
this is a Bethel,
framed houses finished and painted.
many of the houses are
some are grass huts shaded
by the tall cocoa.
about 1/2 past 2 we laid to § saw approaching us a native
boat.
it soon came along side § contained the pilot § 4 natives,
they called for a rope and a rope was thrown over, and In one moment
they were on board.
The Pilot is an American a man whose head Is
bleached by perhaps 70 sumers.
he provably(I) has resided here
for sometime for his complexion has assumed a tawny hue.
At 3
PM anchor cast all sails furled § nothing but our beloved baner
§ bethel flag floating on the breeze.
Two other boats came out
in which were the british consoul and several gentlemen among
which was mr Johnstone whose wife has been in America the paatT
year § is on her return to the Islands having sailed from New
■York 3 weeks before we left.
finding his wife.
He was much disapointed in not
After a few inquires(!) they all returned on
shore.
Sermon below by Brother Conde from 1st of John 3d 3v.
In the evening Prayer meeting In the Cabbin.
interesting.
very sollem and
was occasion. 7 of those with whom we have sailed
§ of whomrwe entertain hope that they are Christians, arose and
thanked God for what he had done for their souls, § also for
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 10, 1837
Page 60
•she.Wing us -1ixi'theirrwayeirTheylseemed affected at the thought of
our sepperation, § indeed it was an affecting thought to me,, but
may God grant that we may meet again where sepperation is never known.
A part of the evening was spent in thanking God for his great love
to us § the signal display of his favour in bringing us safely and
speedily accross the great deep to a place of anchor within about
3 miles of the shore § in full view of the Islands on which I hope
to labour and die.
A light from the shore this evening reminds
us very forcibly of our native land for it is the first time I have
seen a light out of our ship since leaving Boston which a hundred
and 16 days which is a remarkable quick passage.
Monday morn, our
company arose very early delighted with the idea of going ashore,
nearly 100 of the native boats were in view this morning, out for
the object of catching fish.
one veryysmall one came on board
bringing us some milk, another came soon bringing us fruit from
the missionaries.
Several of the bretheren went on shore immeiadiately(!)
after breakfast § quite soon many of hte missionaries came on board
§ invited us to go ashore.
The brothers called at the mission house
and on the King and Governor § then returned in the Kings Barge %
the Ladies all went asshore § met all Brothers § Sisters at the
mission hous(!) § received a hearty welcome § united our hearts
in thanking God for his great goodness not only to. us but also
to them in bringing help at a time.
it was so much needed, for the
field is. white for the harvest § the Lord is evidently among them
giving them giving them (!) a willing mind to listen to the truth.
0 how infinite Is God. after our little meeting which consisted of
singing a hymn then two prayers one by Mr. Bingham § one by Dr. Lafawn
then singing a peice(!) writen by Mr Bingham a part of It at the
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 10, 1837
Page 61
leaveing of the Methodist Missionaries which put in here bound from
the United States for the Oregon Teritory and left here last week
and part writen since our ship anchored and then another hymn.
After this we distributed to the different houses of the Mission
to dine.
My Husband and myself and Sister Smith and the Captain
dined with Mr Tinker a pleasant family.
they have been on the
Islands about 6 years and have for(I) little lovely children.
After diner Several of us returned on board the Mary Frazier to
spend the night.
It is home to us and a precious one too -- --
I forgot to mention one call which we made,
our going to the mission house.
previous to
It was at a sort of a court house
where we saw many of the nobility § waited sometime for the King
but he did not return.
The Ladles of the royale Family are re
markably large and fleshy.
some were recling(!) on mats.
one
stood at the door and received us § with as much dignity to as any Am
erican T,adv.
She was clad in a black silk robe.
The house was made
marks of perfect neatness.
are
high and airy, the floor carpetedzwith native carpet which is
a kind of braided mat.
There was a partition dividing the house,
this was painted green and white,
very neat.
It contained but
little furniture but that was arranged with good taste.
a
they
I noticed
soffa and rocking chair with other chairs quite a pretty look
ing glass and bedstead with curtains § table —
—
—
—
---
But 0 what were my feelings when first stepping upon
heathen ground § cast my eye around upon of these benighted pagans
sitting in the region and shadow of death, whose very appearance
tells their degradation - - - - - - 0 the blessed priviledges of the blessed gospel brought to us by
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
the death of Christ,
April 10, 1837
Page 62
what do we enjoy that does not come to us
through the blood of Christ.
never did I feel more sensibly the
value of that precious gospel than to day.
Its points are Indeed
joy and peace and love meekness § long-suffering § brotherly kind
ness .
it raises us from that low state of sin misery § degradation
into which we have plunged ourselves to a estate of refinement §
§ prepares us- for a seat among Holy beings.
As T looked' upon those
poor benighted fellow creatures traveling to tB.e Bar of Cod with,
us ignorant of the way of eternal life I think a spark of benevolence
was kindled in my breast § I felt to rejoyce that the Lord had
brought me here § I felt as if there was a great workto do and
I long to enter into the labour.
May the Lord prepare this un
worthy worm of the dust to glorify him on this heathen shore.And now could that dear sister who felt as if she could not give
up her sister look upon her now she would say stay sister, and labor
till death.
gladly will I give you to Christ.
Monday eve.
This is the evening observed in our America!
to pray for Sabbath schools § as has been our custom we observed
it notwithstanding our number was small.
us § blessed it to us.
But the Lord was with
He has not brought us all the way over the
great waters to leave us now.
Let us never distrust that love
which has been so signaly manifested towards us -----------------
Teusday April 11th
Early this morning the pilot came
on board § we came to anchor within the iner [Inner(?)] harbor
near the wharf, being towed in by the natives.
our things taken on shore as fast as posible.
except two and myself have gone asshore.
We are now having
All the sisters
I In the midst of the
�Journal, Eois S.H. Johnson
April 11, 1837
confusion sat down and have writen a letter.
Page 63
Teusday afternoon.
Bid farewell to the ship § returned to Brother Tinkers Where I met
with a cordial reception.
The situation which they occupy Is a
delightful one as is also those of the other other (!) Missionaries.
The house is built of coral containing three large airy rooms upon
the ground § as many chambers neatly finished and painted doors
and windows painted green.
About the house Is a beautiful garden
containing trees § shrubery § flowers.
freshing shade.
If affords a cool § re
a sort of tre[e] called the
hou
tree Is beautiful
for a shade, Is not a tall tree but Its branches § leaves are thick
and of a dark and beautiful green.
Brother Tinker has a litle
grass house, int'the yard carpeteduwlthrnative carpet.
delightful § refined(?) little house.
this Is a
Brother Knapp occupies this
and has aranged his things there § feels quite at home,
we occupy
a chamber In Brother Tinkers house § a very pleasant one too.
It
overlooks the garden and Brother Kanpps little house and we have
also an extended prospect of the surrounding part of the Island?
The others are situated Two or three familys in a place among the
Missionaries stationed here.
We are to remain here till after
the general meeting of the Mission which is holden here annuly
to make arrangements for the ensuing year.
All are expected to
be present at this meeting from the different stations on dif
ferent Islands.
In the evening took a walk down the street a little way.
The streets are broad clean § regular.
the loveliness of the
evening together with the loveliness § quiet stilness around made
me almost for the moment forget that I was on heathen ground §
imagine. I was on some well known spot In New England.
But no one
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April II7 .I8 3 7
Page 64
kneeds more than the light of the day to-prove this to him.
He
will see multidudes(!) of them going Idle about the streets almost
entirely naked, many quite except a little of something about the
midle of the body.
This would shock us In America but here It is
so common it is soon scarcely noticed.
Wednesday April 12th.
Buisy in the morning sorting
dirty clothes for the natives to wash.
They take them to the
river to wash and wash them In cold water.
A request came from
the King for all the Missionsaries to meet him at 12 o clock as
he was to sail for Mowie.
to go.
We accordingly made our arrangements
We met him at the house at which we called on the day of
our arrival.
We found all our company there together with many
of the other missionary Brothers
blonging(!) to the other Islands.
%most
of
the persons of authority.
The King was siting on a sopha[sofa]
with his adopted Son a very pretty little boy about 4 years of age
dressed In a little black tunic and pantaloons made just as child
ren clothes are made in America.
The King was dressed In blue
broad cloth Spencer and pantaloons § black
vest with a black saftey(I)
chain to which was attached a very valuable gold watch.
Brother
Bingham introduced us § the King arose and shook hands with us in
dignity and friendship.
he then inquired if we were all there.
Brother Binham(!) then showed him the Protections § read them in
Hawian to him to which he listened with close attention.
he wished
to have the ministers rise that he might see how many § who they
were.
He then expressed his great satisfaction in our coming §
bid us a hearty welcome § assured us of his protection § expressed
his wish that we might do good Instead of evil,
Brother Bingham
�April 12, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H, Johnson
acting as Interpeter(!) between him § us.
Page 65
Dr Lafawn then arose and
In behalf on the company thanked him for his kind reception and
assured him of the deep interest felt by the American churches in
this Mission.
The Captain then requested Brother Bingham to say
that he hoped this company would be as highly esteemed by this people
't'h g /
as they had been by the company with whom they had sailed §
means.'o.f~doing as much good.
well.
The King smiled § said that it was
He said his business called him away § hoped to meet us on
the other Islands.
We were then Introduced to the Governour of
Mow! § his Lady who Is next In authority to the King § is called
Queen.
She said she bid us welcome because God sent us.
We were
then Introduced to some other of the Nobility after which the King
arose to take his leave.
him § seperated.
the company arose § shook hands with
He is to sail this afternoon for Mow! to his
Sister who died last December for burial.
her death is about 900 dollars.
one of which is Zinc.
The expence attenting
Her body Is put into 6 coffins
one was a very elegant one.
She is now
to be carried to Mowi § to be buried in the house which she used
to occupy which is now converted into a tomb.
Great parade has
been been '(!) made to show her remains proper honour.
is a young man about 23 years of age.
The King
0 that the Lord would inspire(
his heart to seek an Interest in Christ § make him know his duty
to God § make him feel that although he rules the Sandwich Isles
yet there is a King who rules the Universe § before him things shall
be judged.
In the evening attended lecture at Brother Binghams.
had
a sollem § Interesting meeting which was lead[led] by Brother Tinker.
He read the 10th c of Acts which he applied to us very aptly.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 12, 1837
Page 66
Our Captain Second Mate § most of the Sailor.ls were present.
Closing prayer by Brother Bliss.
Thursday eve [April 13]
in
C-Jj"Yvl)
breeze of eve.
his love.
let
§
repacking my things I sit down to enjoy the cool
0 how merciful Is my Heavenly Father.
0 how
great
me never forget to praise him.
Saturday April 15th
band §• Brother
after a day of toil § fatigue
Brother Tinker together with Hus
Knapp have gone to Canaoha [Kaneohe] another station
on the opositeside of the Island
to spend the Sabbath.
The
Lord
is pouring out his spirit there and converting the poor heathen,
they are eager to know what they must do to be saved.
It Is only
about 4 years since this mission at this station which I have just
mentioned was established.
hills, would
They were then like wild goats on the
away at the approach of the Missionary.
Brother Parker was placed there alone unacquainted with the Lang
uage.
Now see how the Lord has blessed his labours.
gathered a congregation,
He has
his Sabbath school contains more than
100 § the Lord Is now visiting him with a revival.
Sabbath April 16th
The day clouday(!) which makes It
very comfortable at 1/2 past 2 AM.
natives.
I attended church with the
Services by Brother Bingham In the native language.
I could not understand of course.
The church Is built of grass
native style large enough to hold 4000.
It Is generaly quite filled.
There is quite a decent pulpit built up In one side of the House.
It is getting rather old having been built about 8 years.
Many
�Journal, Lois.S.H.I Johnson
April 16, 1837
Page
67
i
of the natives sit flat down on the mat but some cary In seats
Some dress after the american style § look quite noble.
dressed in long white loose dresses.
Some
these I like quite ‘
well.
A great many go quite bear headed some with nothing but peice of
paper about as large as table cloth tied over one shoulder and
hanging over their body.
on.
Some perhaps with a little short shirt
But they are as orderly and attentive as a New England con
gregation.
The service was out at 11.
I went Immeidateliy (!)
from there to the Seamens Chapel which" is down by the water.
It Is a new § very pretty two story building with a steople(!)
finished neatly § painted white.
the lower floor is divided into
two rooms § as well supplied with reading as posible considering
the means which the place afford.
one room Is designed for Cap
tain § officers the other for Seamen.
The second floor Is designed for worship.
finished with a pretty pulpit.
blinds.
The windows are shaded by green
the house is cool § pleasant.
tioned there,
organised.
it Is neatly
Mr. Deal [DIell] Is sta
he came out about 4 years: ago.
As yet no church Is
But wetrust that the Lord will build himself a church
there § glorify his name in saving Seamen.
At 3 P.M. an appointment at the native church for all such
as wish to join the church or be received to communion to come forth
§ tell what the Lord has done for their souls.
The Captain Second
Mate- § Steward § one Sailor from the Mary Frazier came forrwar.d
§ related their experience,
after which
Brother Bingham acting as Interpter(!),
several of the native church arose and spoke Brother
Bingham interpitlng (!) to us.
The first said he had beer, listening
to what had been said § his heart went out to them § he re joyced
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
greatly,
April 16, 1837-
Page 68
he says how wonderful Is the goodness of God.
Another arose § said It is very clear that you have been a great
siner you have lived under the light of the gospel § you have
rejected Gods mercy a great while but God had his eye on you, he
marked you when you entered that vessel.
he converts sinners.
It is wonderful that
It Is clear very clear that you hav e been
.
great sinners ----- ----Another says when you entered aboard that vesel your obje ct was to
get gain, you expected pay.
he says this Is nothing in my view
but he says you have been visited with the love of Christ
true riches, the other is nothing.
this is
Another arose SJ'inquired whether
the Captain wished to join that church, on being told that he wished
to
joyn(!) the general church of Christ without sect or name, he
says ays I was thinking of the declaration.
Other sheep I have
which are not of this fold them also I must bring.
AnOth er
said
that while he had listened to what the Captain had said and what
the others had said the tears had run down his cheeks § his heart
rejoyced greatly,
he says If you are sincere § wish to joyn this
church my heart welcomes you.
Another said other ships have brought
Missionaries here but none ever before brought their crew to the
house of God to tell what God has done for their souls.
this we had a short exercise in native.
After
then Dr Lafawn addressed
the people § Brother Bingham Interpreted it to them.
then a native
i
hymn was sung § a prayer in native § the meeting dismissed having
.j
held three hours.
Lecture to the Seamens Chapel In the evening.
feeling fatigued with the exercises of the day did not attend - - 1
Who can know the exalted priviledges of a gospel land with■
i
out contrasting them with heathen degradation.
0 that Christians
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
April 16, 1837
Page 69
would feel their obligations to God § to a world dying In sin.
0 what a great § glorious salvation has been wrought out by Christ
for a world sunk in misery.
A great work has indeed been wrought
here yet a great work remains to be done before this people can be
raised to the priviledges of a gospel land § without knowledge
there cannot be any true enjoyment.
I have now been permited to
spend a sabbath on heathen ground § It has been a day memmorable
§ s.ollem as eternity.
how awful is sin.
Yet the Lord ha s been here
E] planted himself a garden in this dry § barren wilderness § I could
but exclaim see what the Lord has wrought as I heard the language
of Gods children assend.
Those
ing Idols which their own hands
who a few years since wer e worshiphad made, § who still bea r ab out
in their bodies the marks of idol worship.
Teusday April 18th
Two deaths have occurred tlhis after
noon quite near § the doleful sound of wailing is still heard,
notwithstanding that it [is] now 17 years since Missionaries came
among them yet the practice of wailing Is not done away entirely.
Friday April 21st
dined on board the Mary Frazier
together with the brothers § sisters § also the missionary bretbaren
§ sisters residing here, also one of the cheif-(!) § Captain S
who Is here from America.
our good Captain seemed to enjoy seeing
i
his friends on board very much § It brought to mind the many
pleasant precious seasons we have spent there.
one secret wish to return in it to America.
But yet
had
not
It Is probably the
last time that I shall step my foot on board the vessel irhich bore
me from my native shore § when it spreads it[s] white canvas to
�Journal, Lois S.H, Johnson
April 21, 1837
Page 70
the wind § majesticly plows its way back to that dear land may we
then be labouring for those dying heathen.
Saturday April 22d
dined at brother Diamonds[Dimond].
He is the book binder, came out here about 2 years since.
tea at the Rev Mr Deals,
he Is the seamens minister.
Took
came out
four years ago, Is supported by the seamens friends society of
America.
Sabbath April 23d
This has been a precious day.
we
have been permited to come around the table of the Lord § com
memorate with his dear children here the dying love of our dear
Redeemer § to renew our covenant vows.
Captain Sumner Mr. Tread
well § four 4'sailors came forward § took upon themselves the
covenant vows of the Lord § were admited to the communion table.
As I look upon these poor natives who have but just begun to
hear of a Saviour I am led to think that many of these soulsswill
shine brighter in the Kingdom of Heaven than many who have set
under the meridian of the gospel all their life.
The Lord knoweth.his children § keepeth them as the apple
of his eye.
May he keep those who have taken his vows upon them
selves to day § gaurd(!) them from the firey darts of the adversary
for they are but babes in Christ.
Monday April 24th
There are to ber-.holden a meetings
on all the evenings of this week at the Seamens Bethel.
This
evening Brother Lafawn gave us a sermon from these words, The way
of the transgressor is hard.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
May 15, 1837
Page 71
Monday May 15th
Just returned from following the remains of a beloved ~
Sister of this Mission to the tomb.
deep sollemnity.
The occasion was one of
A few days ago she had as fair a prospect for
life as any one of the sisters.
The Sabbath before yesterday she
worshiped In the Sanctuary of the Lord.
Last Saturday night about
15 minuets past 12 oclock she took her flight to the eternal world.
She has finished her work §gone early
her Saviours hand.
Blessed
to receive her crown from
spiritshe now ranges (?) the world of
bliss § strieks her harp to the new strains of redeeming love,
would our fond hearts recall her back to this world of sin to
share with us its woes; ah no!
But let this sollem voice of Gods
providence lead us to more holiness more prayerfulness more active
zeal In the service of Christ that we may meet her in Heaven — --Heavenly Father wilt thou sancitfy it to me § prepare
me to meet thee that when death comes be it sooner or later that
it may be the messenger to Introduce me to my Fathers house.
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.
May my last end be
like hers.
Sabath May 21st 1837
This evening a Chruch was formed at the Seamens bethel
of which Mr Deal Is Pastor.
afterthe church was
Lords supper was administered.
organised the
It was a sollem § Interesting
occasion § our hearts were made glad.
We trust that it is a vine
of the Lords own pi aiting § that he will water § bless It § that
it will be a rfountain from which will Issue streams to make glad
the city of our God —
■
—
—
---
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
May 27, 1837
Saturday eve May 27th
Page 72
This eve our company which came
out In the Mary Frazier presented their letters from the churches
to which they had belonged § again renewed our covenant by sub
scribing with our own hand to be the Lords."
Sabbath [May 28]
r.th
the Mission church as a church held
their annal [annual] celebration of the Lords supper as is their
custom when they come together to general meeting.
Brother Bing
ham remarked that it was probably the largest Missionary church
on the earth but since their last meeting around the table of the
Lord two of the Sisters had gone to join the saints in Heaven.
Sabbath June 4th
Communion at the native church 38
members admited § Mr Bingham remarked that
to come forward § join the church. But it is
400 more were desireous
deemed expedient
to wait awhile § see If they live consistent as a Christian ought'...
there is undoubted evidence that the Lord has gathered a great
multitudes of these poor people Into his fold § that they will be
found In the great day on the right hand of the Redeemer while
multitudes who have been born in Christian lands will stand on
the left.
Monday June 5th
Fyi&yfich
Took leave of the dear -Rraekfetrs at Hono
lulu and embarked on a small vessel for Kauai
Brother Alexander § Whitney. after
a sail of
in company with
about 40 hours-during
which time we were extremely sea sick together with the inconvenience
of being crowed[crowded]'into a small vessel crowded with natives
we arrived safely at Waioli the place of our destination f] were
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
June 5, 1837
Page 73
welcomed by multitudes of natives on the shore anxious to see
their new teachers.
Glad was I after being tossed about for six
months to set my foot upon the spot which for the present is to
be the field of our labours § a delightful spot to[o] in prospect;
here perpetual spring smiles § the luxuriant soil spontaneously
yeilds(!) her Increase.
The situation of Waioli Is on a level
plain extending in from the sea over which is Interspersed native
houses.
On all sides of this plain except that opening to the
broad ocean there are first hills rising in regular order then
lofty mountains hideing(!) their bold heads In the dark clouds.
Down their ragged and almost perpendicular sides come rushing
four beautiful cascades forming in the valey below a broad river
which emptys its waters into the pacifick.
But while the eye
rests with Indescribeable pleasure on the fair book of nature
spread out* the heart sinks within at the dark picture of degrada
tion which her
gable sons present.
We are Indeed made to feel
that sin is an evil an[d] bitter thing § to exclaim behold how
It has despoiled the fair works of God.
Brother W. § wife spent
the day with us and at night went on board to
U^feheir way
expecting to reach home on the morrow.
This evening have enjoyed a precious season In prayer,
felt that God was near § my soul was refreshed.
We are at present
to remain with Brother A our grass house not being ready - - - - -
June 12th
To day made a feeble attempt to commence
teaching. Sister A § myself concluded to take the girls of which
there are over 60 under our care § devote as much time to them as
can be spared from our families.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
July 12, 1837
Page 74
Monday eve July 12th
This day we have entered uppon the new § untried business
of house-keeping after a day of fatigue In arrangeing our little
(!)
Husband § myself sat down to a cup of tea In our own house § truly
we have reasonsfor great gratitude for the Lord has been very mer
ciful to us, he has not only brought us safely accross the great
waters, but has has (!) preserved us till this present moment §
provided for us a quiet comfortable home where we may dwell In saftey(T)
even among a people whose minds are dark § degraged [degraded] by sin.
surely the tender mercies of the Lord are very great.
trace his hand in the dealings of providence.
I love to
To-night we have
been permited to rear our own family altar § to dedicate ourselves
anew ttogether with our new habitation to the Lord.
0 may he con
descend to take up his abode here § bless us with his divine presence.
July 31st
It is three weeks tonight since commenced
housekeeping § I find my time completely occupied In the cares
of my family together with my school.
§ my health good.
Is precious.
But this is pleasant to me
If I may only be useful it Is all I wish.
Time
0 that I might spend It for for (!) the glory of God.
The last week has been one of great excitement.
Six
vessels have been in our little harbour bring much news from our
beloved fellow laborers at Honolulu by which we have been refreshed
but our joy has been damped by the dark cloud which blackens our
horison § seems to portend trouble,
but the Lord reigneth § he will
overrule all things § can make all things redonned(?) for his own
r
glory. This mission has long enjoyed the smile of prosperity §
perhaps our heavenly Father sees It necesary to suffer persecution
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
July 31, 1837
Page 75
to arise, but let his children confide with perfect confidence
in him § he will not suffer-the enfmy to triumph long - - - - - - -
Teusday the 21st'[probably Tuesday, Aug. 22]
been a day of hustle § fa-tiguge(I).
This has
Mr. Deill § family have left
for to return to their home after having made us a pleasant visit
f Sister Whitney has come around to spend a few days.
this is un-
usal at our retired station wh/ere we seldom see any of our friends.
Monday [August] 28th
Examination of schools to-day.
Just at dark set sail in a double canoe with Husband § Sister
Whitney for their station at Waimea expecting to be on the water
all night.
It was indeed a most beautiful night calm § serene.
The broad canopy of Heaven was our curtain § as I lie gazing at
its arched vault of deep blue bespangled with a thousand starry
gem my thoughts rose to that being of infinite wisdom § power who
spread out the Heavens § decked them with all their glory § by
wK os-es
-wfes-oe proteclng [protecting] power amidst dangers seen § unseen.
Teusday morn
landed in safty.
Just after day-bereak(!)
on the shore of Waimea met Brother W on the beach ready to welcome
his beloved companion § us to his home.
that I have taken cold.
Feel much fatigued § find
Waimea Is altogether unlike Waioli.
is a hot dry place with scarce a green thing to be seen.
It
the hills
are so parched that they resemble hills covered nearly with snow;
Yet the location of the place is pleasant.
an extensive view of the ocean.
It Is elevated § comands
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Monday Sept 4th
Whitneys schools.
Sept. 4, 1837
Page 76
In the Morn attended 'Eo%'k.% of Brother
See abundant evidence that his labours have
not been In v a i n ----- 1-At 2 PM Set sail for our own station after having spent
a week pleasantly § I trust not unprofitably with Brother Whitney.
The wind was rough § I became a little frightened untill the sail
was taken down.
A little pased [past] nine oclock In the eve we
put In at a place called Nualolo a sort of an oven in the
where boats can run In safely for the night,
boat, put In for the night.
Paldi
here we found another
The natives kindled a fire on the
bench and set down merily to their fish § -poet
We made our re
past of such as we had § retired to our bed but not to much sleep,
our bed was on the boat which was drawn just on to the edge of the
shore but the roaring § dashing of the waves was so loud that our
sleep was not very quiet.
before day break our company who had
put in for the night started on their way § as soon as day began
to dawn in the east we put our little boat to sea.
about six in
the Morn we landed at Halalau where we found Brother A waiting
to meet us.
This .Is a place In the Pardd jxilljg;.cwe.‘tpre the first
missionaries who have ever landed there.
Brother A § Husband took
a walk back among the inhabitants leaving me on the beach to pre
pare breakfast as well as I could from the food which we had brought
along with us.
The shore where we landed is one hung by an immense
ledge of rock affording a shady resting place underneath its over
hanging sumit for two or three hundred.
Here we kindled a fire
caught some water from the mountain stream of which we made us
a fine cup of coffee'-, by this time Husband § Brother A returned §
we spread our food on the ground § seated ourselves around It §
�Sept. 4, 1837
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Page 77
after giving thanks to the bestower of every blessing enjoyed our
breakfast exceedingly not less perhaps for the novelty of the scene
In the meanwhile the people assembled being
marched on to the
ground in regular order by one who seemed to act as captain §
apparently felt as much pleasure § pride as a General would In
marching his regiment on t'osthe field.
Brother A proceeded to
examine them after which Brother A preached to them.
We then took
our leave § put out to sea having succeeded much better in geting
through the surf than we anticipated.
The sea was rough § arery
few moments a waveswould break over us drenching us with salt
water but after rowing hard all day against winds § waves we
succeeded in reaching our home in safty, and thankful was I for
-I was much fatigued § my face was burned nearly to a blister - - The Pa3vy-'baffles- all any' powers of .description,
deed surpasses all that I have ever seen In sublimity.
It In-It extends
along the shore of the ocean for many miles § It almost seems as
you sail along as if it[s] towering peaks which seem to reach to
heaven sometimes appearing in broken ragged mountains sometimes
shooting up in the form of a sougar [sugar] loaf would lose their
balance § overwhelm you beneath Its ruins in the mighty deep.
Here might the painter find scope for the boldest touch of his
pencil § here the poet gather laurels for his brow.
Monday Sept 18th
To-day Husband and I have again com
menced our labour of teaching.
May the Lord guide us, that we may
be enabled to point them to the Lamb of God who taketh away the
sins of the world.
that we labour.
But if God add not his blessing it Is In vain
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Sept. 18, 1837
Page 78
Monday eve Sept 18th
have had my soul harnassed with the suggestions of the
V
adversary § 0 how ready is my wicked heart to fyeild.
It seems
sometimes as if wicked one was determined to lead me captive §
\
were It not for the almighty power of God which able to Iceep- all
which Is commited to him - - - -
Oct 8th
Have awoke, undercircumstances of great mercy
to behold another holy .Sabbath blessed day which commemorates the
resurrection of our dear Redeemer which is our hope § our strength.
Have had a precious season in prayer.
What infinite mercy In God
that he should permit one who deserves nothing but to be sent to
eternal misery to sometimes enjoy a foretaste of Heavenly joy.
December 30th 1837
to our trust.
A precious little daughter was comlted
0 that our hearts might glow with gratitude for this
new blessing § 0 may we have grace to train her up for Christ.
It is indeed a sollem responsibility to have a little immortal com
mited to our care; § 0 the anguish If through our unfaithfullness
it should go down to the world of despair.
0 Saviour we dedicate
her to thee, accept her ET bless her, sanctify § make her clean.
u>
through thine own blood § may she be one to smell the song of
redeeming love In eternity.
thee,
th o u
Thy promises are true.
wilt accept our offering § make her thine.
a heart to praise thee for thy-'goodness to me.
love I would be entirely thine.
we give her to
0 that I had
Lord melt me in
�Feb. 21, 1838
Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Febuary 21st [1838]
on this Island.
Page 79
We hear joyfull news from Waimea
Trust that the Lord is doing a great work there
§ gathering many souls into his kingdom.
Trust have some desire
for his presence here § some longing after souls, have felt more a
spirit of prayer of late but 0 what are my efforts either for my
own soul or the poor perishing heathen,
lament over my sloth § unbleif(!).
with shame § confusion I
resolve § resolve but, Alas!
my weakness proneness to wander truly I can say with Paul that
when I would do good evil Is present with me.
0 that I could
keep at the feet of Jesus § be taught of him § drink deep of his
spirit that my soul might be moved with some of that compassion
which actuated our Saviour.
quiry among the people.
We think we see some spirit of in
trust the Lord is hovering over us by
his Holy Spirit, waiting to pour us out a blessing.
I desire to
get In the dust of humiliation § to walk softly before God that I
block in the way of the salvation of these
poor Immortal souls.
Feb 22d
The rainy Season has commenced § we have heavy
falls of rain accompanied with thunder § lightinng(!).
The cascades
now which flow down the mountains appear like a sheet of foam §
the noise may be heard several miles.
Monday. July 9th 1838
This Morn husband left here for
Honolulu In company with br DImond who spent a few days with us.
How
desolate all looks when husband Is away.
May he be
returned In due time that we may again recount the goodness of
the Lord together.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
July 10, 1838
Teusday morn July 10th
Wed morn..
last eve Br Parker
Page 80
ma
arrived.
We have the pleasure this morn to welcome
Br Smith ma:
spot.
It Is sweet to see our friends here In this lovely
e.e-nS'
It chews our hearts § we feel to labour with renewed zeal.
Mon July 16th
Our friends have left us for Koloa.
Sat July 2Stir[i.e.28]•.Br•.'Castilema arrived this afternoon.
Was gratified to see them § their little one.
August 2d
Husband arived in safety not a little glad
to once more find himself In his own quiet home.
Monday 9th [probably Monday, Aug. 6, 1838]
ma
Br Castle
left to return to their own home.
Monday 16th [probably Monday, Aug. 13, 1838]
one of our natives for his misconduct.
to do right In all
was the case.
But
August 28
0 that we had wisdom § grace
things, but 0 we are ^
Perhaps we were not patient enough.
Sent away
W P Os'
/to
trr
May we be forgiven If that
we must have trials § this is a slight one.
have been employed all my leisure moments
for a week past In writing notes § American letters.
precious priviledge to converse with them even by pen.
It Is a
How often
does the prayer arise In my heart that God will prepare us all to
meet -In Heaven where sepperation Is never known.
�Journal, Lois S.H. Johnson
Sept. 12, 1838
Sept Monday 11th [i.e. 12]-
Page 81
Husband left this morning
to accompany Sister Tinker home after her visit here which was
very pleasant to us all, yet short § how soon have the precious
moments fled § brought us to a sepperation again.
is every joy.
Every sweet has its bitter.
0 how fleeting
How often am I led to
feel that all here is vanity § that this is not my home, that there
are joys which are real
laid up in Heaven.
And yet 0
my soul wilt thou ever cleave to the dust § chase a phantom.
0
for the love of my dear Saviour it is more precious than toungue
can tell.
0 for his spirit that I may be willing to devote myself
entirely to his service § 0 for faith that I may offer the prayer
of faith for such alone will the Lord hear.
December 20th.
0 Lord my soul panteth after thee for
thou alone art the source of all joy.
0 I beseech thee thou blessed
Redeemer that thou will casue me to drink deep of the fountain of
living waters, that my soul may be purified § made to reflect thy
blessed image.
Think I desire the salvation of souls but 0 how
little do I realize the worth of the never dying soul.
must come from thee.
Lord It
0 give me such a sense of it as shall lead
me to agonize at the throne of thy grace in the behalf of the
chr lHldren(!) § people with whom:'! dwell.
[This journal ends here.]
�
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Johnson Family Journals
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Johnson, Lois S. Hoyt - Journal - 1836-1838
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Hawaiian Mission Children's Society Library at the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives