John Eynon's Journal
Voyage to Quebec In 1833 from Padstow
[Biographical Note - John Hicks Eynon (1801-1888) was the second missionary dispatched from England to Upper Canada by the Bible Christian church. The first missionary (sent in 1831), John Glass, gave up and became a teacher. This was J.H. Eynon’s second attempt to get to Canada. His first attempt, in 1832, was unsuccessful due to storms and he ended up landing in Cork (while in Cork his boxes containing books and clothes were stolen – reference made below). Between the time of his first and second attempts to get to Canada, J.H Eynon married Elizabeth Dart. Elizabeth Dart was a prominent Bible Christian itinerant preacher prior to her marriage. I would believe she is the "Dear Betsy" referred to in this extract.
Extracted from "The Bible Christian"]
RELIGIOUS INTELLIGENCE
J. H. EYNON’S JOURNAL.
Br. Eynon’s Journal of his Voyage to Quebec, is arrived, and we embrace the first opportunity of giving it publicity, hoping that it may be a means of stimulating our readers to redouble their diligence in praying for the Missionaries.
MY DEAR BROTHER,
I forward to you this brief account of our Voyage, and something, of the state of my mind during the time we were on the voyage; if you judge it worthy of publication, it is at your service, and I remain yours, & c.
J.H. EYNON.
May 1st. 1833. After waiting at Padstow, and its vicinity, nearly three weeks, with a longing desire to my destination in North America, In the name and strength of Jehovah, I and my Dear Betsy, went on board the Brig Dalusia, (of Padstow) bound to Quebec, Robt. Moon, Master, About two o’clock, I parted with my very affectionate friends, to see them no more for seven years at least, as I supposed. About twenty minutes before three, we proceeded down the river with a southerly wind, and made for the Irish Coast. The wind increased and became very strong during the night, and the vessel tossed and rolled so much, that some of the crew, as well as the passengers, became very sick. I suffered severely from sickness, but the hope of landing in America, to engage in so great and honourable a calling, kept my mind above every thing else. All "glory to God." Amen.
Thursday. This morning we are about eight leagues off the Irish land, and as we have a heavy and contrary wind, we can make no headway, for what we gain on the one Tack, we lose on the other, therefore we are tossed about to little purpose; however I hope even this "will work for the good." My mind is undisturbed, for Christ is within, my comfort and support and notwithstanding the sickness, my soul pants for a full conformity to his glorious image.
Friday. The wind continues a-head, and the Captain thinks it is most advisable to bear up for Padstow again, and about half past six o’clock this morning, we saw the Point, but the wind being so strong, and a very heavy Sea, fears were entertained that we should not be able to come in: however after cruising for some time, waiting for water, the attempt was made, and it proved effectual; and about three, we came to an anchor in Padstow Cove. "Glory to God." In the evening some of our kind friends came to enquire after us, and expressed a desire for us to accompany them into town, but I thought it the most advisable to remain on board, as the Captain intends to said as soon as the wind proves favourable. I am happy to say this day has been as a Sabbath of rest for my soul; and although things appear dark, I believe I shall yet see Upper Canada, in North America.
Saturday. This morning Dear R.P. Griffin, came to see us, and seemed determined not to go home without us. About one o’clock we were put on shore and went into Padstow with Him. His kindness, together with that of Betty, his servant, has made too deep an impression on my memory ever to be forgotten. I hope the Lord will reward them a thousand fold in this world, and in that which is to come, give them everlasting life. We spent the afternoon comfortably with them, and in the evening we supped at Mr. P. U. Oke’s; we prayed together afterwards, and the Lord was present and precious, "Glory to his Holy Name."
Sunday. My head is so bad I am scarcely able to hold it up, but all is right which "my heavenly Father" does. I had been informed that the vessel would sail again this afternoon. I went down to Cove, and learnt that she will not sail till to-morrow. We returned and went to chapel, heard Brother John Davey preach from "Who is on the Lord’s side?" I felt the word "like fire in my bones." He sang about six times during the discourse, but it was with very great solemnity. After he had done, he told the people there was plenty of time for me to speak a little, and at his request I ascended the Pulpit: my soul was in a blessed frame, and I strove to declare to them "all the counsel of God." I hope it was not altogether in vain.
Monday May 6th. I arose about half past four o’clock took breakfast, and prayed at Brother Griffin’s, and his servant went to Cove with us. We arrived about six, set sail about half-past six, with a light, but fair wind from the S.S.E. The tide was so strong that we were very near being upon the Gullrock, a little off Padstow; we cast an anchor and were thereby preserved from injury, save the loss of a little time. The wind was fair all day, and at [sic] eve we lost sight of Cape Cornwall. Spoke with one of St. Ives’ fishing boats, and saw some line of nets in the water. My mind is somewhat weighed down having parted with my dear and very kind friends, and having left and lost sight of the land of my nativity, and am bound to a foreign land, to take up my abode amongst strangers, having sacrificed a land of many and inestimable privileges, to enter into a world of trials and difficulties indescribable; but if the Lord favours us with prosperity in our Mission, (which I humbly hope he will,) that will more that compensate for all our sacrifices and suffering. My soul pants for the Salvation of perishing sinners, and I hope yet to see better days: my daily prayer to God is, hasten the time.
Tuesday. The wind stands fair, and is somewhat increased, we sail about 5 Knots an hour. I feel very severely from sea-sickness, but I hope soon to recover therefrom. Saw two fine ships making for the south, but we were not near enough to hail either. My soul has sweet intercourse with Heaven, and I am looking forward with eagerness to Upper Canada. Bless God I cannot regret at having embarked on so glorious an enterprize. O! that I may spend and be spent for those "who have not yet my Saviour known."
Wednesday. Went on deck about half-past four, P. M. looked through the glass, saw a small craft to the N N W. with her main and misen masts bare, thought she was in distress, called the Captain and made our course for her immediately, and soon found she was a French fishing boat, and all well. Turned about to our course again; we sail about 4 Knots an hour. My song is, "Waft! Waft! ye winds his story, and you, ye waters roll," &c. We have no reason however to complain since we have been out, for all has so far appeared favourable. I had an unusual time at prayer last night; my soul was enlarged and melted into tenderness before the Lord, and I long always to be in that blessed frame: my cry is, "Lord help me." My Dear Betsy is very fearful, especially when the wind blows a little fresh; I hope the Lord will strengthen her fortitude.
Thursday. The wind is moderate, but very fair. I have been sick all the day, and able to eat but little. My experience teaches me that Satan is still alive, he has tried various ways to disturb my mind; but when he comes in as a flood, the spirit of the Lord lifts a standard against him. Glory to God. In reading the Scriptures and Newton'’ Dissertations on the Prophecies, I have been much blessed, and encouraged to proceed to my mission in North America. Hallelujah.
Friday. The wind is North and rather light, we sail from 3 to 4 Knotts an hour. There is a vessel in sight on the Starboard, bound apparently for America. My Dear Betsy is very unwell, and very low in spirits, I am somewhat better, today. Glory to God. While reading Paley’s amd [sic] Newton’s works, I was a little strengthened, and I feel increasing determination to be more that ever given up to God. I am made sensible there is no substitute for real holiness; for when my soul is fully clear before God, it burns for the salvation of my fellow creatures, all fear and shame vanish, and I am rendered, "as bold as a lion." O that I could always live in this blessed and desirable element! Amen.
Saturday. The wind is North still; we sail bout 4 knotts an hour. The sea is calm and very pleasant. My Dear Betsy is very low in spirits, her friends and native land bear heavily upon her mind. I am rather hurt to see her so, and I endeavor to cheer her up as well as I can, I hope she will rise again ere long. However we are both determined to be more that ever enemies to satan and his kingdom. O! how many ways he has tried to discourage and make me afraid, but through divine grace, I have been able enabled to exclaim,
"On this my steadfast soul relies,
Father thy mercy never dies."
I have a greater discovery of the necessity of enjoying an increasing union with the TRINITY, that I may "ask and have," ask and have, whate’er I need; O that my soul may feel a stronger struggling after more of the power within, that I may never ask in vain. Amen.
Sunday 12th. The wind about N.W. and very light, therefore we make but little headway. I am very sick, and am unfit either to read or meditate, I am in my berth most part of the day, yet I know my Heavenly Father is "too wise to err, and too good to be unkind," therefore although at present it is not joyous, "I believe it shall work together for good," while I love him. My mind has pretty much wandered to day; my old Cornish friends seem more near than ever they did. O! how glad should I be to have an interview with some of them, but alas! I am not permitted at present, yet one thing affords me considerable comfort, namely, that I have an interest in their prayers when they approach the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Monday, The wind is west, and by north, it is a strong breeze. My Dear Betsy is very much afraid, but through mercy I am fully preserved from fear. We are both very sick but we hope soon to recover therefrom. "If the Lord was not on our side," in such a time as this, every thing would look dark indeed; but as "He is our help and shield," none of these things can move us. While in my closet to-day, these words were applied with power to my mind "when thou passest through the fire it shall not harm thee," neither shall "deep waters overwhelm thee," for "I am with thee; I am thy God." In which case I have nothing to fear. "Glory to God and the Lamb." Hallelujah.
Tuesday 14th. The wind is S.W. and by W. and not very much of it. Bless God I am somewhat better, but my dear Betsy is rather worse; yet amidst all, she expresses so much love for the people in Canada, that she is willing to suffer, if the Lord will render he instrumental of good when she arrives. I am able to read a little to day, and is so doing I have been refreshed and strengthened. I hope I shall "mend the net," a little now. Satan is yet alive, and I find he is unwearied: he has severely attacked me this afternoon, but through grace, I am more that conqueror. The captain and mate are remarkably kind, and very obliging. Our accommodation is very comfortable. While I look upon the world of water with which we are surrounded, I have felt a longing desire after a sight of our Port. There has been a vessel in sight nearly all the day, some miles behind us; she lies in the same course as we do, and most likely she is bound for America.
Wednesday. The wind N.W. by W. and but little of it. It is very cold on deck to day. I am able to read and meditate little. I hope to spend my time to the best of purposes. I feel somwhat [sic] alive to my best interest, and more love to my fellow creatures; I see more clearly that ever the value of "Precious," although perishing souls; and I hope to be made wise to sin some of the to God, "to snatch poor souls out of the fire, and quench the brands in Jesu’s blood." My prayer is, Lord make me, "a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the work of truth."
Thursday. The wind is very unstable, but it blows pretty strong; we make but little head-way. The sky looks likely for powerful gales. Betsy is very unwell. I am not so well as I was yesterday, but I still hope, and look for better days. My mind has been called into exercise through the day, - by grace I am kept above the swelling billows. When I consider the goodness of God towards me, I am ashamed because I do not love him more, I desire to praise him, and to remember all his benefits.
Friday. The wind is W.N.W. we have had a boisterous night, we were sailing under singe reefed sails, nearly seven knots an hour. The gale continues very strong, and we now have our sails closed reefed. The sea swells like mountains; it look awful, and yet very grand. The vessel rolls very much but all is well while Jesus is here. My dear Betsy is very fearful that we shall have a watery grave; if it be so, it shall be for the best, but I believe the Lord has not sent me here to drown me; no no; bless his name I can trust in him and am not afraid. But I assure you, every thing wears a dark aspect here in a world of water, far from our friends and native shore, yet the Lord has "kept my mind in peace," and preserved me from every thing like fear. All glory to his most excellent name, Amen. [no close quote] I am sick and obliged to lie in bed most of my time, and while there thinking about my old Cornish friends. I have often thought their prayers with mine were ascending upward; and the thought has so gladdened my heart, and humbled me before God, that my pen is not able to express it. "Here only I covet to stay."
Saturday. The wind is S.E. and blowing a heavy gale. The sea foams, rises like mountains, and threatens our ruin. There has been nothing very engaging in our voyage thus far, whatever the remainder may be. "God only knows." If Betsy had thought she had been so fearful, I suppose she would not have embarked; I hope it is all for the best. The loss of my boxes, with my clothes and books, came home to my mind with more than usual weight to-day. I scarcely knew which way to look or turn for a moment, but the Lord condescended to disburthen my mind, and fix it more fully on things eternal and divine. I hope the Lord will have mercy upon the thief, and grant him "repentance unto life." I am become anxious to reach my destination. Souls seem more precious in my view that usual, therefore I hope to exert myself more abundantly in their behalf, that I may be instrumental of good in my day and generation.
Sunday 19th. The wind is S.W. it is blowing strong, and rather squally: in the forenoon it carried away our fore-boom and main trisail gaff. The men were reparing [sic] and refitting until evening, and some of them entertained fears that our lives were in Jeopardy. My dear Betsy was full of unbelief and fear; if ever I saw and felt the value of sterling piety, it is now, although I have not that ecstacy of joy which I have many times felt! Yet, I have settled peace, and regular lasting confidence in "Jehovah of hosts [best guess]," what keeps me unmoved. O! that I may ever delight in showing forth his praise alone. I have an intense desire to be more like my lowly master, that by my life, conduct, and conversation, I may glorify him, and find my way to heaven.
Monday. The wind is S.W. it is not so strong as it was, but it is very unsettled still. I am very sick, yet; I never thought I should have suffered so much from sea-sickness; as soon as I partake of food, I throw it up again almost immediately, unless I go to bed directly. My stomach is very sore, and I am rendered much weaker than when I embarked; and there is now but little hope of my being much better until we arrive at Quebec; yet this promise comforts me, "all things work together through for good, to them that love God." I am sure I love him, and regret I do not love him more. O! that my heart was filled with burning love to God. Amen.
Tuesday, May 21st. The wind is not so squally as it has been, the sky wears a more favourable aspect, and we live in hopes of a fair wind’ere long. While looking back on my past life, I see I have been, and still am, a child of mercies. O! how many evils divine grace has preserved me from, and how many difficulties it has supported me in, and how many deliverances the "Arm of Jehovah" has wrought for me, yet, notwithstanding all, I plainly see wherein I have manifested much ingratitude and disobedience so much that I really am filled with wonder and astonishment at the longforbearance aud [sic] lovingkindness of "Jehovah," and abhor myself in sackcloth in consequence thereof, crying "let the time past more that suffice," wherein I have been "barren and unfruitful in righteousness," and by his grace may I abound in fruit to his hour and glory through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday. The wind is fair but rather light, we have our studding sails set, and are sailing about 5 Knotts an hour. The sea also has a more favourable appearance, and we are somewhat cheered, being favoured with a fine day. I pray and hope to see many such like. I had a favourable time last night in prayer, my spirits were revived a little, Glory to God. I am much exercised by wandering thoughts this afternoon, so much that I am angry with myself; but I hope the "Lord will deliver" me shortly. While reading in the Book of Psalms, my mind has been "strengthened," and while perusing "Bucks Anecdotes," I was much comforted and refreshed, yel [sic] my soul pants after more of the divine nature, and often cries out, "make me in thy image shine." I often look hard toward Canada, and heave a longing sigh, earnestly wishing speedily to arrive. I often break out singing, "Waft! Waft, ye winds, his story &c. [no close quote]
Thursday. The wind stands fair: it stood well all last night, we made good about 3 ˝ Degrees of Longitude, the last twenty four hours. A week’s wind, of this kind, and strength, would lead us into the gulf of St. Lawrence. The sky looks favourable Eastward, and we indulge a hope that the worst part of our voyage is past. Betsy is worse in body to day than she has been at all, but her soul is happy in the God of her "salvation" I am some little better than I was yesterday and my mind also is more composed and delighted in the pleasant duties of prayer, reading, and meditation. I have an increasing appetite for Divine things, and I sensible feel the truth of the assertion of our blessed Lord, where he says, "My flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed." Oh! let "the life I live in the flesh," (always be,) "by the faith of the Son of God."
Friday. The wind is still in our favour, and I hope we shall not forget to be thankful to God for his goodness to us ward. While sitting on deck reading Buck’s Anecdotes, I was powerfully struck with the description and proofs of the zeal, love, and fortitude, therein given, of some of the servants of God who have departed life in peace; and who though dead, yet speak, and that loudly. I trembled from head to foot, and was led to exclaim, I am unworthy, yea unworthy "to be called thy son." But I hope it will be a means of stirring me up to greater diligence, that I may posses more of that spirit with which they were influenced. "Lord help me." Amen.
Saturday. The wind still continues fair, but it is rather light. The air is getting colder every day. There are abundance of birds flying to and fro. While I was examining myself to-day I had such a sight of my unworthiness; and nothingness, as made me tremble, and I was filled with wonder and astonishment that God had not long ago plunged me into the pit of despair and woe. O the boundless love of an infinitely holy and omnipotent being. "Praise him, O! my soul; and forget not all his benefits." My Dear Betsy is nothing better, but of the two, rather worse. I am also unwell also, but the Lord has promised "that not an hair of our heads shall perish," and that "he will make a way for our escape," and by his strength I am determined the Devil shall not baffle me out of it.
Sunday May 26th. The wind is still favourable, and is risen to a fine breeze. This is Whitsunday, and I am so unwell, and Betsy also, that we have not been able to hold any public meeting. I have thought much about our old friends in Cornwall, and elsewhere; and about the many good meetings they were enjoying, while we are tossing and rolling upon the foaming billows, and not able to help ourselves; but although these things seemed to make against us, yet I cannot murmur, because our heavenly Father is "too wise to err, and too good to be unkind," therefore if I had the power to choose, I dare not, but leave it too him, who
"Moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform.
He plants his footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
Monday. The wind is E.S.E and a good breeze; we have our studding sails set, and we are going about 7 Knotts an hour. The vessel tosses pretty much, in consequence of a cross sea, but we hope it will soon go down. There is a small brig in sight, about two leagues a head, laying her course similar to ours. We have had several showers of rain during the day, and sometimes we are surrounded with a very thick fog. If this breeze continues, we expect to be upon the Banks of Newfoundland, in the course of a few days, where we hope to take a few fresh fish, which will be very acceptable, and a great treat. About four o’clock P.M. we overtook the brig and spoke with her, she is a French Vessel, bound for Newfoundland. The Lord conduct them, and us, safe to our desired port. Amen.
Tuesday. The wind is fair still and pretty strong. Spoke with an American Brig, called the HyCaruian, of Baltimore, she is homeward bound. The wind is piercing cold here. There are abundance of birds, some swimming, and others flying to and fro. The Porpuses [sic], also, are playing about us, much more than I wish, for they always put me in mind of a storm. The vessel rolls pretty much, and the sea runs mountains high, and sometimes threatens our ruin; but none of these things move me, for I am fully persuaded that if the Lord hath a work for me to do in America, not all the water in the Atlantic Ocean will be able to drown me until it be done. Glory to God – my spirit seems unbound to day, and my mind somewhat enlarged, I have also a strong hope springing up within, that I shall yet see the mighty arm of Jehovah manifested in shaking terribly the kingdom of darkness, and in building up the glorious kingdom of IMMANUEL. – My soul cries out in reference to the former, "rase it, rase it:" and as to the latter, "let the top stone be put on shouting Grace! Grace! unto it". Amen.
Wednesday. The wind is pretty fair still, but it is not so strong as it was: at eight o’clock this morning we hove the lead hoping for soundings, but had none. Saw a large Bark bound Eastward, we were not near enough to hail her. This is my birthday, and the first I ever spent upon the Atlantic. I purpose, in the strength of divine grace, to give myself afresh to God, that henceforth I might live more in the spirit, "Mortifying the flesh" daily that I may become completely "dead – onto sin," and fully alive to God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This afternoon satan and his tribes, (apparently,) were let loose upon me, and my mind has been so much exercised, that I was good for nothing, except lying upon deck groaning and sighing to Heaven. It was consequence of a view of my not being equal to the work I am about to engage it. I hope I shall be supported by that arm which has been my help for years past. My trust is in him whose arm brought salvation out of Zion. Therefore I humbly hope, "I shall not be moved."
Thursday 30. The wind chopped round nearly a-head, and there is but little of it. The vessel rolls very much. We expect by the appearance of the sky, that the wind will be Easterly before morning. Though it would be a source of joy if I was Landed at the desired port --. Yet – while I consider that my master holdeth the wind in his fists, I dare not complain, for it may be necessary for me to "tarry a little longer until my beard is grown." 2 Sam. x. 5. The lead has been hove out to-day, but we had no sounding. By our reckoning, we are very near the banks of Newfoundland. We are longing to arrive there, that we may enjoy a sweeter intercourse with heaven to-day, than I did yesterday, and an encouragement to pursue the same road, until I enter through the gates into the city. "Lord help," saith my soul. Hallelujah.
Friday May 31st. The wind is fair, and a strong breeze. The vessel sails 8 knotts an hour. There are several mountains of Ice to N.W. and S. of us, which appear to have come from Newfoundland: one of them very much resembles a church and Tower, and looks remarkably grand; but the wind in this neighbourhood is rather sharp to the fingers and toes. At twelve o’clock, by observations, we were in Latitude 45ş 2" N., and by heaving the lead found we were just entering the great bank of Newfoundland, in forty fathoms of water. The bottom is fine sand with broken shells. The sound of bottom produced a pleasing change in every countenance, all seemed cheered and gladdened with the hope of arriving safely at our desired Port. My mind is not in a very good frame, either for reading, meditation, or writing; but I feel somewhat resigned to my fate, and am looking in earnest expectation for more of the mind of my Lord and Master. The Lord keep my mind stayed on him, and prepare me to meet the dispensations of his providence, and finally receive me "into his everlasting kingdom," through precious blood. Amen.
Saturday June 1st. The wind is W.S.W. and very light. There are several Schooners upon the bank taking Codfish: our boat went along side one of them, and the captain made us a present of upwards of forty small Cods; we had one for breakfast, and I assure you I thought it one of the finest messes I ever tasted, especially upon the banks of Newfoundland. Glory to God, he can supply us by sea, as well as by land. While pondering in my mind on his goodness towards us since we have been ploughing the trackless-deep, I am lost in astonishment, and filled with shame, because of my littleness of love, and my indescribable ingratitude. I desire to be thankful that he has not spurned me from his presence. O! that "the time past may more than suffice wherein I have lived so distant from him," and may my heart be mouldered into love, that I may in his, "gracious image shine." Spoke with a brig from Liverpool, bound to St. Johns; she has been out thirty-five days. I am getting increasingly eager to arrive at Coburgh [sic], in Upper Canada.
Sunday 2nd. The wind is west, and but very little of it; we sail about 2 knotts an hour. Saw 2 very large Whales, swiming [sic] about on the side of us last night. I suppose by their colour they were male and female. They spouted the water up very high. The weather is fine, but very cold. My mind is very much exercised to-day, so much so that I am altogether unfit for public exercise, however I entered my closet and bowed before the Lord, and while thus engaged my mind was somewhat composed, but not so spiritual as I could wish. I took Mr. R. Watson’s Dictionary, and while reading therein upon me knees, my soul was a little risen above transitory things, and I felt an hunger and thirst after things heavenly and divine. I never felt the want of the public means of grace, or saw the value of them, so much as since I have been at sea. I think I shall the better know how to improve them when I land at my destination. If some of my old Cornish friends were destitute of them so long, I am almost confident they would know how to esteem them more highly than they do at present. O! that I may learn a useful lesson herefrom. I have many times during the day wished I was once more favoured with a meeting similar to some of those I have had at Hicks-mill in Gwennap, or at Padstow; but I must wait patiently a little longer before I can expect so high a favour, I assure you, I expect to enjoy meeting equal, if not superior, if I am faithful, when employed in the Mission. Glory to God, that though I feel inadequate to the high, holy, and important work, to which I am appointed, yet – I hope I am not altogether ignorant, of Him, on whom my help is laid. If I know any thing of myself, - I believe that "my strength and tower is the Lord Jehovah." "I of myself can do nothing, but I can do all things through Christ strengthening me," is my plea. That these mighty truths may be deeply written on the fleshly tables of my heart, is my humble prayer.
Monday. I am somewhat encouraged to press hard after all the fulness [sic] which lies before me in the "gospel of peace." I feel a sharper thirst after useful knowledge also, for – my whole desire, and great concern, is, to know how I may be rendered the most useful in turning souls to God. I perceive that the greater part of my life has been spent to little purpose; and while I sat viewing the value of fleeting moments, I was constrained to cry out with the poet,
"No room for mirth or trifling here."
I never had so clear a sight of the deplorable state of the fallen race, as I have had to day. I plainly see there must be greater efforts made on the part of the religious [sic] world, if they would see the kingdom of satan demolished, and the glorious kingdom of Christ extended to every heart of man.
O when shall that happy and long-prayed-for time arrive when every child of Adam shall "run with patience, the race set before" him. My heart cries, "Lord hasten the time. Halelujah. [sic]"
Tuesday 4th. The wind is S.S.E. and a very pleasant breeze. Sounded upon St. Peter’s bank, the bottom is fine Brown and white pebbles. Saw a vessel a head, lying W.N.W. The weather is very cold and foggy. Read St. Paul’s 1st Epistle to the Corinthians through, and some part of Buck’s Anecdotes. I never beheld so much substance in the former, as I did to day; the greatness of the Apostle’s mind, the strength and firmness of his arguments, together with his intense desire to ground the Corinthians on the immoveable [sic] foundation, powerfully struck my mind, and I earnestly desire I may become as valliant [sic] and zealous as Paul in so great, so honourable, and so glorious a cause. I clearly see there is nothing so desirable as a life of real holiness will be a life of usefulness also. I have travelled as a minister of the gospel, nearly seven years; I have travelled thousands of miles, tried to preach a great many Sermons, to small and great congregations; visited the sick from house to house, and have had many happy seasons while engaged in these duties; and now I discover fully the reason my labours were not attended with greater success was because I stamped upon my heart, my tongue, and my actions, that by ""ringing forth fruit unto holiness," here, my end may be "everlasting life." Amen.
Wednesday. The wind is N.N.E. but there is little of it. The sea is very smooth, and the sun shines beautifully; the fog also is somewhat dispersed. There are two Brigs in sight; one on the starboard, and the other on the Larboard side of us. We encourage a hope that we shall make the American land to-morrow, if the wind increase a little. The thought of which, cheers me more than a little. My Dear Betsy is more anxious about it than I am, partly because she is so ill; she has suffered very severely therefrom, but I hope it is all for the best. I am in pretty good spirits still, "Praise God,"
"For while I do his blessed will,
I have my heaven above me still."
The importance of the work (which awaits me) in all its bearings, at intervals, crowds upon me, and it is quite as much as I am able to stand, but while reading the blessed "word of life," and meditating on the "precious promises" therein contained, I am a little encouraged to proceed to "cry aloud and spare not," and to "lift up my voice like a trumpet." I hope to take more delight in searching it, and meditating thereon, that I may have more extensive knowledge of its contents and meaning, and that I may "rightly divide the word of truth," and give "saint and sinner their portion of meat in due season." "Lord help me." Amen.
Thursday 6th. We have but little wind, but what there is, is pretty favourable, This is the warmest day we have had since we left Cape Cornwall. The sea looks delightful. There are abundance of birds of different species, flying around us. We keep a sharp look out for land, but it is sometimes so foggy, that we cannot see many miles a-head. I am quite well to day, and my soul seems much drawn out after God. While I was reading St. Paul’s 2nd Epistle to the Corinthians, I saw and felt the need of being more faithful and zealous in the cause of God. I hope to improve the light imparted, and diligently to attend to every good impression, that I may "make my calling and elections sure, so that I may not fall, but have an entrance ministered unto me abundantly, into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
(To be Concluded in our next.)
[Extracted from "The Bible Christian"]
We have just received a letter from Sister Eynon, noticing the safe arrival in Upper Canada, of her husband and herself, about the middle of July; and that he intends to write soon. They were cordially received by many old friends, and had been blest among them. In our next we hope to furnish more particulars.
RELIGIOUS INTELLIGENCE
J. H. EYNON’S JOURNAL.
Friday. The wind is S. and it is a very pleasant Island, bore W. by N. Distance about 4 leagues. The sight of land created a measure of gratitude for our preservation, and joy that we are drawing near our desired port. Came in sight of Cape North, at noon, and made St. Paul's Island at the entrance of the gulf of St. Lawrence, about eight o'clock P.M. We are all in good spirits, hoping in one week more, to arrive at Quebec. "Praise God for all his mercies and benefits towards us." Amen.
Saturday, 8th. The wind is strong and right a-head, the weather is foggy. We passed Bird's Island, about four o'clock this morning; if the wind continue in this point, we shall have a long and tedious passage to Quebec, but he "who holds the winds in his fists" knows what is best for us, therefore I dare not murmur or complain, neither do I feel desirous to choose. I am rather poorly in body, but I sensibly feel that my soul is centred in God, and pants ofter [sic] more of the divine fullness. While I was pondering over St. Paul's Epistle to the Ephesians to-day, my heart panted to be "filled with all the fullness of God." I hope I shall never rest until I am rendered "perfect, lacking nothing."
Sunday. The wind became favourable about four o'clock this morning , and has contined so thus far. There are four fine vessels in sight, they look very grand, all in full sail. Our ship is sailing about six Knotts an hour. Made the S.E. end of the island of Anticoste at ten o'clock; it is about ninety miles long, and twenty wide; there are but few inhabitants upon it, but it is pretty well covered with timber. I have a severe pain in my loins and great weakness in my legs, to-day, but I hope when I have a little more exercise it will soon be removed. The Sabbaths spent at sea, (to me) are not so profitable as those I have spent in publishing the sinner's Friend. If it please God, I shall be very thankful if this be the last I shall have to spend on ship board, for the rolling of the vessel, altogether unfits me for such like duties. Had a prayer meeting about four o'clock in the half deck, with Mr. Ralph Jane, and his family; it was a precious season; my soul was watered abundantly, and we felt while "waiting upon God that we renewed our strength." Praise his name. The weather is very foggy; we expect to reach Cape Roseir very early in the morning, and satan has severely tempted me that we shall be run ashore there, as it is so dark, but "thanks be to God," he has delivered me from the power of temptation, " and "made a way for my escape." All glory be ascribed to his excellent name. Amen.
Monday. 10th. The wind is not very favourable this morning. We made the land on the S.W. side of the River St. Lawrence, it is very mountainous and well covered with wood: saw some men employed cutting some of it down: it looks a very wild part of the world, and but thinly peopled. We are now about 300 miles distant from Quebec we hope to arrive there some time this week. My heart is cheered at the sight of land, and with the thought of reaching, ere long, our desired port. I feel thankful for the preserving mercies of God vouchsafed toward us, and for his kindness to us manifested daily. My pen fails, and words are not sufficiently strong to describe his goodness and compassion to us ward. I am constrained to exclaim
"O! for a thousand tongues to sing, &c."
May he assist me to employ my every breath to his glory. The water is much smoother here than it was in the gulf, so that the pleasure of sailing is much increased, and the appearance of the land much richer.
Tuesday. The wind is fair now, but there is not much of it, therefore we make but little progress. There is an East Indiaman a-head of us, she looks very grand with all her sails bent, before the wind. I am tolerably well to day, bless God, my spirit is revived and cheered. I feel a struggling within for more of the power of godliness; and an increase of the holy ardour of soul for which the Apostles were eminent. I am really sensible of the need of it that my life may be a life of usefulness, and that I may be as "the salt of the earth," or as a "city set upon a hill."
Wednesday. The wind is almost a-head, therefore we make but little head way. The S.W. land is remarkable high, and the top of the mountain is quite white with snow, so that it looks very cold. The land on the N. is also high, and it looks very barren. I have seen a great many seals to day passing and repassing, and a large Whale also, which I suppose was upwards of sixty feet in length, his plunges in the water might be heard distinctly for a half a mile distant. Saw two find vessels coming down bound to England. While I was reading St. Paul's 1st and 2nd Epistles to Timothy, I felt that the advice given him therein, was very suitable to me, therefore I hope strictly to attend thereto, that I may become "a workman which needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth," that I may bring out of the "heavenly treasure, things new and old." I am very desirous to arrive at my destination, that I may know how things are there, and that I may commence my Missionary labours. May the Lord grant "that his presence may go with me." Amen
Thursday. I arose about 4 o'clock, and after closet prayer, went on deck; the weather is very clear, we can see a great many miles distant, but it is in general, so far, little better that a wild Forest. There is plenty of good shelter for Seals, Bears, Martin, Cats, &c, which by the information I received of the Pilot, abound in those woods. At 2 A.M. made point Demon light, bore N. distance, 3 leagues. We are now becalmed, but I hope the wind will freshen up that we may arrive at Quebec, at furthest, by Sunday evening. There are three vessels in sight, two of them bound home-ward, and the other going up the river, a little a-head of us. My soul has a solemn sense of the divine presence resting upon it, from day to day, and I humbly hope I am increasing in knowledge and in the love of God, that I may "apprehend that for which I am apprehended of him" and be "presented perfect, lacking nothing."
Friday. The wind is N.E. we have a delightful breeze, but the weather is very fotty. Our Pilot came on board yesterday, and it was a source of no small consolation to us. He informed me that not less than ten vessels have been wrecked by and through the Ice this spring; one of them was called the "Lady of the Lake," she came from Limerick (in Ireland) with upward of 200 passengers, she struck an Island of ice between the bank of Newfoundland, and the gulf of St. Lawrence, in the watches of the night, and every soul perished except the crew. I am somewhat thankful that God has preserved us amidst dangers seen and unseen thus far. I have no doubt but what we shall arrive safely at our desired Port, in his appointed time. Everlasting praise be given to his honourable and worthy name. We are now in sight of Green and Red Islands. There is a fine light house on the former, and it is also inhabited by several Pilots. The timber also looks tall and large. The latter is very low and dangerous to shipping in foggy weather, (which is very common in this country,) especially the reef of rocks which extends miles to the eastward. There is one large brig there now which was run upon them in thick weather about a week ago, and there she must remain, until the storms beat her to pieces, for it is past the skill and power of man to take from thence.
Saturday. We made the Island called Brandy Pots, last evening, with a fine breeze from the E., but the weather being so thick, and the river so dangerous, we lay at anchor in Hare Island anchorage, the whole of the night. Early this morning we weighted anchor for the purpose of having the advantage of the tide, but the wind being so very little we have not made much head-way as yet. We have such a prospect to-day as very far exceeds the utmost bounds of my expectation, in the houses on each side of the river their situation exceeds any I ever saw (in pleasantness,) even in my native country; and they look so neat and white that I am quite delighted with them. The most part of them are surrounded with fields and meadows. There is also in the midst of them, a church called St. Andrew, and a few miles to the S.W. of them is a beautiful looking town, and a very neat looking church with tree spires each, neatly covered with tinplates, which when the sun shines upon them look very much like silver.
Sunday, June 16th. We made Goose, Crane, and Grose Islands. On the former there are several fine farms, the rent of which is applied to the support of the Nunneries at Quebec. On the latter the Quarantine officers reside, opposite which we came to anchor. There are eleven vessels lying here, most of hem [sic] are under Quarantine regulations. There are also a great many passengers on shore washing their clothes and bedding, agreeable to the quarantine regulations. There is one vessel which came from Ireland, in which there were 29 passengers died on the passage, of the cholera, therefore they have the cholera flag flying at the main mast head. We were not delaying more than about two hours, and are in hopes of reaching Quebec tomorrow.
Monday, June 17th. About half past four o'clock this morning, we were opposte the falls of Morausea; we have also a full view of Quebec. About eigth we came to an anchor just opposite the city, and I hope we are all thankful for the mercies of God, extended toward us. O! that I may live to his glory, and more fully delight in publishing the sinner's Friend. I went on shore about eleven o'clock, and the very first thing I did, I sought for Mary Ann Daniel, from St. Austell downs; she is very well, and I am happy to state that she is still striving for an "entrance through the gates into the city." I dined with William Hocking and his wife, from near Pentewan. He is a mason, and also keeps a grocery and spirit store. They also are "striving to make their calling and election sure."
They are very kind and wish us to spend a few days with them. He desired me to remain and open a Mission here. He says there are several townships about the neighbourhood, the inhabitants of which, would with thankfulness, receive a Missionary. As a proof of which some of them have chapels erected, and they are crying to their christian brethren, of their native country, "Come over, and help us." I would gladly embrace and seize the opportunity, but as I am appointed to Upper Canada; I shall proceed thither, as soon as I have a little recovered my voyage. O! that I may be "mightily strengthened in the inner man." Amen.
N.B. The brig, Dalusia, (of Padstow, Cornwall,) is a very strong, and copper fastened vessel; and she is a good sailor. The captain, (Mr. Robert Moon) is a civil, kind, good humoured, obliging, and affable man; and his diligence - experience, - knowledge of Navigation, and caution, - strongly claim encouragement from all who may emigrate from Cornwall to Canada, by way of Quebec
J. N. Eynon.
Contacts:
Sher Leetooze
Robin Potter.
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