DEPARTURE FOR INDIA--VOYAGE--ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA.
Early in the year 1806, Mr. Corrie took leave of his relatives and
parishioners to embark for India. At that time, a voyage to India
was looked upon as a much greater undertaking than it is considered
at the present day. Accordingly on Mr. Corrie’s departure from his
father’s house, the parishioners pressed round to take their leave of
him; many of them deeply affected, believing “that they should see
his face no more.”
After a prosperous journey to London and Portsmouth, he embarked
(March 30, 1806) on board the _Asia_ East Indiaman, bound to
Calcutta. Mr. C. was accompanied by a brother-Chaplain, the Rev.
Joseph Parson, one of his most attached College friends. Among the
passengers were many cadets, to several of whom Mr. C. was made
useful, and became in after life their friend and counsellor. Some
particulars of the voyage are subjoined from Mr. Corrie’s Journal and
Letters, which shew the lively interest he took in the welfare of all
around him, and indicate the steady purpose with which he kept in
view the great work before him.
In his journal, Mr. C. writes under date of
“April 10th. This day I have completed my twenty-ninth
year. In the review of the past year, O what reason have
I to adore the divine mercy. Soon after I had determined
on going to India, which was in June last, it pleased God
to work by his word, and to raise a general attention to
eternal things, amongst my people at Buckminster and Stoke,
giving me real favour in their sight, for which I desire to
praise Him, confessing that I am not worthy to be ranked
amongst the meanest of His ministers. Some amongst them,
I hope, were brought to God. O that they may continue
to walk in the truth; and may each amongst them become
Christians, not in name only, but in deed and in truth!
Since I have been on the point of departing from England,
every objection to the undertaking has been removed from
my mind. My heart is set on the work of the Lord in India;
and I would not draw back, as far as I know myself, to
be made Archbishop of Canterbury. I have taken leave of
my dear friends, most likely for ever in this world. I
would dedicate every faculty of my soul and body to my
redeeming God. Lord, accept me, working in me that which
is well-pleasing in thy sight, through Jesus Christ my
Lord and Saviour; to whom with Thy blessed self, and Holy
Spirit, Three persons in one Jehovah, be all glory, and
honour, and praise, now and for evermore. Amen!
“April 14th. On Saturday afternoon, and yesterday morning,
the wind blew quite a hurricane. In the night of Saturday,
I could not sleep for the tossing of the ship: I lay
meditating on death, and found my mind calm and resigned;
but saw nothing in whatever I had done on which I could
rely for a moment; saw nothing, in fact, but what was
deficient and defiled with sin. Yet, in the consideration
of the atonement, and intercession of Jesus, I could look
_without dismay_, though not with any sensible joy, to a
judgment-seat.
“Yesterday the wind was too high to admit of divine
service. Much consideration about our danger during the
preceding night; but, alas, little disposition to praise
the Lord for his goodness! Some few of the passengers
listened with attention, whilst I read a sermon on the
poop. I had much conversation at intervals with several of
them, on the subject of religion; and found some disposed
to attend. Yesterday, passed one of the Salvage islands:
to-day one of the Canaries (Palma.) No one who has not been
for some time out of sight of land can conceive the delight
which the view of these created; or the refreshment they
afforded the eye. As stupendous monuments of the divine
power, they ought to have raised more adoration in my heart
to the great Supreme. But, alas! I find the more I get
familiarized to the wonders with which I am surrounded, the
less sensibly I feel my dependence on Him in whom I live
and move. Blessed Saviour, O let me be accepted, and ever
preserved through thy intercession, and kept by thy power
through faith unto salvation. Amen.”
Whilst off the coast of Africa, Mr. Corrie relates that the Lady
Burgess, one of the Indiamen in company with the Asia, struck upon a
rock:
“The masts were cut away: the pinnace, contrary to
expectation, floated, (for she filled with water,) and
soon after was driven clear of the breakers, with about
forty persons. As many as could swim plunged in, and about
seventy at length got into her. The boat also was manned,
and, by the exertions of the chief mate, the ladies, (six
in number,) were put into her, and none allowed to go
with them, lest, being crowded by too many, she should be
swamped. The captain and some others who could not swim,
were saved by laying themselves on planks; and, being
drifted by the waves, were afterwards picked up by the
boats. The Leopard’s boats saved about twenty-five. The
ladies were received on board the Nelson; the greater part
[of the crew] were taken up by the Melville, and some by
the Sovereign and Alexander. About fifty perished; amongst
whom were the first and sixth mates, the purser, and
twenty-four cadets; the greater part of the others were
Asiatics, with some soldiers.”
With reference to this melancholy occurrence, Mr. C. writes:
“Sunday, April 20. This morning has been spent in great
anxiety. About two o’clock, I heard guns firing as signals
of distress. When day broke, the wreck of a vessel was
seen on the rocks, off the island Benevento. About eight
boats were observed at a distance, and at ten o’clock
we perceived one making towards the Asia. Soon after,
a passenger of the Nelson, and one of the mates of the
Lady Burgess, came on board, from whom we learnt that the
unfortunate ship was the Lady Burgess, which was gone down
with every part of the cargo. Six ladies, passengers,
reached the Nelson in safety. The mate, after putting the
ladies on board the Nelson, returned to the wreck, when
her poop remained above water sufficiently to preserve
life: on returning a second time, nothing was seen but part
of the bowsprit, every creature had disappeared; but the
Commodore, having sent several boats to their assistance,
suggests a hope that all are saved. What reason have we of
this ship to adore a kind Providence for being directed
a different course! Alas, that such indifference, nay
base rebellion [against God] should still appear! O let
me not be as those who know not God, but grant me such a
due sense of all thy mercies, O Lord, that my heart may be
unfeignedly thankful, and that I may show forth thy praise
not only with my lips, but in my life! Amen.”
The Journal proceeds:
“April 23rd, St. Iago.--Went on shore with the purser. On
landing was struck by the scenery, which was quite new
to me, and highly picturesque. Within the beach there
is a low valley, having the appearance of a marsh, with
shrubs growing in the shape of a pine-apple; it had a very
pleasing effect. Water was here procured for the fleet.
The town stands on a hill, on the right of the valley; and
within the fortifications. At the foot of the ascent, and
on the beach, were three officers riding on small lean
ponies. Their clothes, ragged and much worn, were such a
contrast to an Englishman’s idea of the word ‘officer,’
as to excite a smile. Further on were some slaves, in a
state of nature, employed in breaking cocoa-nuts. At the
entrance of the garrison stood a sentinel, without shoes or
stockings, his other clothes hanging in rags, and having no
lock to his musket; altogether, he reminded me of one of
Sancho Panza’s guards. In the town, which consisted of two
rows of huts, we found poultry, pine-apples, cocoa-nuts,
&c. &c. for sale. The natives perfectly understood what are
called ‘the tricks of trade.’ I am told they sell a kind of
Port wine of inferior quality, mixed with rum to keep it
from going sour; they have also a kind of gin, extracted
from the sugar-cane. Their women are the most disgusting
figures that can be conceived; many of them having only a
covering round the waist; the men too like men in general;
but one, a Caffre slave, was about seven feet high. The
country presents a most barren appearance, being very
hilly, and seldom visited with rain. After staying about
three hours, I returned to the Asia, most thankful that my
lot had been cast in Britain, and admiring the kindness of
providence to that happy isle. Long may a gracious God
exercise the same fatherly care over it! Long may England
flourish, as the place which God hath chosen to put his
name there!
“Sunday, April 27th. I had service on deck to-day, the
sailors being very attentive; was much affected with
languor, so that the day has passed in an unprofitable
manner. I had a long conversation with G., and hope well of
him again. Thought much of my dear relations; and had an
affecting sense of the value of former privileges, ‘when
I went to the house of God, with the voice of joy and
gladness.’ O for the happy time when I shall be privileged
to draw near to God without restraint! Blessed be His name
for some sweet seasons in private. O may the impression of
them remain, and be productive of holiness in heart and
life!
“May 3rd. Yesterday the wind sprung up, a light breeze, and
continues to drive us two knots an hour, after a calm of
three days. In the night, we had a very narrow escape from
running foul of the Alexander; the boats were about to be
lowered from the idea that the ship might go down by the
concussion. What reason to be thankful for preservation! O
for a due sense of all thy mercies, my God and Saviour!
“Friday, May 11th. This day had divine service on deck: in
the evening had a conversation with V. on the doctrine of
the Atonement. He seemed much impressed, and said he had
never before considered it; but hoped he should now make it
the study of his life. Lord, work in him both to will and
to do for Jesus Christ’s sake! Amen. I would record, to my
shame, how feeble my efforts are for the eternal welfare of
those around me; and, when I think of the shame I feel, I
desire to be roused to greater exertions, lest Jesus Christ
should profess himself ashamed of me at the last day. O the
piercing thought of being excluded from thy blessed vision!
Prevent it by thy grace! let me not fall, I pray.
“May 18th. Service on deck. Found much sweetness in
private devotion, with a disposition to pray for my dear
relatives and friends by name. My mind tolerably fixed on
divine things, with boldness to speak to any that came
in my way, on the subject of religion. I have of late
observed with pleasure a great change in P.’s views and
sentiments respecting scriptural truths; and a practice
more correspondent thereto than formerly. This morning, he
spoke with much feeling, on several experimental truths
of Christianity; and I humbly hope, is no stranger to the
power of them. O that I may be enabled to walk in wisdom
towards him, and that he may be an honoured instrument in
turning many to righteousness!
“Sunday, June 1st. I have neglected to make memoranda
during the past week, and fear it is a symptom of spiritual
decay: yet, I find, in general, much fixedness of mind in
private prayer; and sometimes much tenderness of spirit.
The Bible is my delight and daily counsellor; and I think
I watch every opportunity of calling the attention of
those around me to the things of eternity. Yet, I would
confess to my shame, that these attempts are feeble,
generally very unskilfully conducted, and little calculated
to produce a good effect, and chiefly confined to more
intimate associates. I plainly perceive that without a
great exercise of divine power, I am totally unfit for
the work of introducing the Gospel amongst the heathen;
and much fear lest the objects of time and sense should
divert me from that pursuit. Yet, Lord, thou knowest that
to be instrumental in turning many unto righteousness is my
highest ambition. This is the determination of my judgment;
though, alas! my affections draw me powerfully to court
the favour of man, and to covet ease. I perceive myself
poor and blind, and miserable, and wretched, and lost, and
undone; but O the joyful sound of wisdom, righteousness,
sanctification, and redemption in Christ Jesus for ruined
sinners! Blessed Lord, grant me a spirit of faith, that I
may apprehend this dear Redeemer; and by virtue of union
with Him may obtain acquittal from all condemnation, and
daily become more like Him, in righteousness and true
holiness!”
To the Rev. J. Buckworth he wrote as follows:--
“We are in hopes of reaching Madras in nine weeks from this
time; so that before you receive this, which comes by way
of St. Helena, I shall, by the divine permission, be in
India. Indeed, on this element, in a peculiar manner is
the apostle’s limitation to be attended to, ‘If the Lord
will, we shall do this or that.’ My dear friend will be
ready to fear that an account of our spiritual voyage is
to be excluded from this paper. Would that I could gladden
your heart with tidings of a large fleet steering for the
haven of everlasting blessedness; but on this subject my
materials are scanty, though, blessed be God, some news of
this kind I can send you.... We have twenty-two youths on
board, going as cadets to India: of these a few allow me
to talk freely and familiarly on the best subjects; the
others treat me with civility, though sometimes they are
shy of my company. One I sincerely hope is pious, though
very volatile in his disposition: another attaches himself
very much to me, and is much separated from his companions.
These are the most promising among us, ‘the gleaning
grapes, one or two, on the top of the uppermost boughs.’ I
have distributed several Testaments, and other books; but
observe no increase at present....
“My thoughts lead me now to Dewsbury, where I fancy I
behold my dear friend and his dear partner, happy in each
other, and happy in the love of Jesus; but not without
some thorn, to remind them that their God has a more
complete happiness in store for them. You will not need
assurances that my daily prayers ascend on your behalf; nor
need I ask you to believe that words cannot express the
interest I feel in your welfare. May the richest blessings
of Providence and of grace descend upon you both; and
may you bring much honour to the ways of truth, by your
lives and conversation, till, full of days, and full of
grace, like shocks of corn in harvest, you be gathered
into the heavenly garner! I long to be publishing glad
tidings of salvation to poor Indians, and am daily studying
their language for this purpose: an Asiatic on board
helps me in acquiring the pronunciation, and in return,
receives instruction in the New Testament: he evidences a
teachable disposition; laments the folly and idolatry of
his countrymen, and I trust will one day become a witness
against their abominations.”
But to return to the Journal:--
“June 8th, 1806. On a review of this week, I feel
much cause for humiliation, and much for praise; for
humiliation, that I gather no more boldness in the
cause of God and of his Son. Yet, I am thankful that my
silent refusal to conform to the vanities around me is
not unobserved; and that a sneer about saintship is not
unfrequently indulged in, when I am present. I rejoice in
these tokens of my separation from the temper and practices
of the world; yet I would look to more certain evidence of
my love to Jesus than this, even in the devotedness of my
heart to His service and glory; and in the love I feel for
perishing souls around me. Alas, my evidences are very few:
yet I think I would rather be a door-keeper in the house of
God where I might see His face, than live in the richest
palace on earth; and to be instrumental in turning sinners
‘from the power of Satan unto God,’ is more desired by me
than to be Emperor of the world. These are my sentiments
and desires: O Lord, let them not evaporate in empty
speculations for Jesus Christ’s sake!
“Thursday night. I would record to the honour of Divine
grace, the goodness of God to my soul. Rose this morning at
half-past five, found much earnestness in prayer, and my
mind much disposed to that duty, but little if any sensible
comfort. Prayed particularly for a believing, waiting
spirit, which has been graciously vouchsafed. I have
observed two or three instances of answers to prayer, in
the waiting frame of my mind; in the attention I have been
able to give to study, and in some other particulars. Lord,
keep me humble and thankful for Jesus Christ’s sake, Amen!
“June 29th. I have neglected to make memoranda of my
state. Abstained from dinner, with a view to afflict
my soul before God, on account of my own sins, and the
sins of those around me. O Lord, without thy divine
influence I fast and pray in vain. The sins in myself I
would particularly note are, a backwardness to think on
divine subjects; a general deadness in religious duties;
a coldness of affection towards the Lord Jesus Christ; a
want of zeal for God, and of love for souls; and a fear
of censure and reproach, which leads me to suffer sin on
my neighbour unreproved. With respect to those around
me, their profane swearing, their neglect of God and His
worship. O will not God be avenged on such a people as
this? Will not this floating city be sunk in the mighty
waters, for the wickedness of its inhabitants? O Lord, let
my cry come before Thee, in behalf of this ship’s company,
through the mediation of Jesus Christ!
“Sunday, July 6th. This morning a most tremendous gale came
on. Went on deck at five o’clock. The vessel rolling so as
once to ship a sea on the lee-side; every person seemed
apprehensive of danger. For my own part, I do not recollect
to have been afraid, but I felt much awe and seriousness,
in the thought of appearing before God. In the afternoon
(two o’clock), a man fell overboard from the foremost
main-yard. By the uncommon exertions of Mr. Walker, the
third mate, and four of the men, he was taken up alive, and
gives hopes of recovery. Mr. W.’s conduct on this occasion
merits the greatest praise, and has much endeared him to
every one on board.
“July 20th. Read Church History and Persian. The Commodore
spoke an American, which left Calcutta on May 28, and
which on June 22nd, spoke a ship at sea, and received
information that a frigate, supposed to be detached by
Jerome Buonaparte,[6] put into the Cape and was captured
by Admiral Popham; from whence it is concluded that Jerome
Buonaparte either followed the frigate into the Cape and
was taken, or proceeded to India. Two country ships had
been captured in the straits of Malacca.
“Thursday, July 24th. In addition to the news heard on
Tuesday, learned from the Commodore, that the American told
him a general peace had been brought about in India. O that
‘the Prince of Peace’ would establish His dominion among
those perishing heathens! Every day brings me acquainted
with some new proof of that wretched slavery which they are
under to the powers of darkness. My mind is bent on the
work of the ministry amongst them. I think with delight
on the time when I shall be able to address them, in
their own language, on the glorious truths of the gospel;
and am thankful that I find diligence and ardour in the
acquirement of Hindoostanee. Yet, when I reflect on the
backwardness and timidity that possesses my mind in this
matter, among my present associates, I am ready to fear
lest I should be diverted from my purpose. Lord, hold me
up, and bring me through, more than conqueror, for His sake
who, I believe and feel, ‘loved _me_, and gave himself _for
me_!’
“Thursday, August 21st. This morning heard that Ceylon
was in sight; went on deck soon after, and saw land, but
very indistinctly. At half-past one the shore presented
a beautiful object; a great variety of trees, hills, and
plains. My mind more affected than I can express, with
a sense of the goodness of God, in bringing me thus far
in health and safety. I feel no inconvenience from the
climate, and very little of that listlessness I so much
feared. O for a heart to praise the Lord! Surely, surely,
I am more ungrateful than any of God’s children; for His
child I feel I am! O write thy law on my heart; and let my
obedient life bring glory to Thee, through Jesus Christ!
O how I long to be declaring the way of salvation to
perishing souls! O let me have that faith which overcomes
the world; set me free from every entanglement; keep
through thy word those on board whom thou hast disposed to
consideration; fortify their minds, and keep them from the
tempter’s power, to the glory of thy grace, Amen, Amen!
“Sunday, August 24th. Rose this morning at five o’clock.
After prayer--in which I found earnestness, and tolerable
fixedness of mind, though no stirring of affection--went on
deck. Read in the epistle to the Hebrews, and found much
light flash on my mind in reading. Saw more clearly than
ever the _distinction_, yet _consistency_, between the old
and new covenant. At eleven, read a sermon from Walker;
afterwards joined in prayer with W, P, G, and V.[7] I found
much enlargement of heart, and much freedom of expression
in prayer. Lord, keep me humble; and, O bless these my
associates! Convince them of sin; lead them to Jesus;
make them strong in the Lord; and be a spirit of adoption
in their hearts, for Jesus Christ’s sake! Lord, bless my
dear relatives. O give them grace to walk before thee
with perfect hearts; and supply them with every needful
earthly blessing. Feed them ‘with food convenient’ for
their station, and finally crown grace with glory. Amen! No
prayers on deck, or in the cuddy.
“Monday. Yesterday afternoon, a strange sail came in sight
to the northward. Cleared for action, and lay at quarters
all night. Expect to reach Madras to-morrow morning by six
o’clock. Every one seems unsettled in prospect of going
ashore; my own mind has caught the contagion. Nothing to
advantage has been done to-day. ‘Lord, save or I perish.’
“Wednesday. Were disappointed in our expectation, by a
strong current which set us so far to the westward that we
were obliged to tack, and wait for the sea-breeze, which to
our great joy sprang up about three o’clock; and brought
us into Madras roads, where we cast anchor exactly at ten
at night. Yesterday morning the air was much impregnated
with the flavour of the productions of Asia, having a smell
like the sickly smell arising from sweetmeats. The entrance
into the roads was very delightful: the light-house before
us, the European residents’ houses on the left, showing
lights from various quarters; the Nabob of Arcot’s palace
lighted so as to appear brilliantly illuminated. All these
were pleasing objects to eyes accustomed to look only upon
the wide extended ocean for four months past. The striking
of clocks, too, was most gratifying to the ear. My mind
was much affected with a sense of the Divine goodness,
in bringing us thus far in safety and peace. As soon as
we were anchored, two boats came from Admiral Trowbridge
for despatches; and a _Catamaran_,[8] with three natives
charged with letters from the Town-major to the Commanding
Officer. These natives presented a most disgusting
appearance to a stranger, especially an European stranger.
They have no covering, save a small piece of cotton round
their waists; and a cap, like a fool’s cap, of fine
basketwork, in which they carry their letters: and, being
entire strangers to our language, my mind was affected with
dismay and horror. Retiring to my cabin, despondency almost
overcame me. My native country, with its healthy climate,
and hospitable inhabitants, came forcibly to my mind. Those
loved objects seemed for ever gone: dear relatives for
ever fled! In exchange, a sickly climate, a burning soil,
a heathen population, were to be my associates. Alas! how
these considerations depress my spirits, while a sense
of my own unfitness to encounter any of these obstacles,
leads me to consider this as a place of banishment, and an
untimely burial-ground! Yet have I not freely chosen this
undertaking? And, has not God power to bring me through?
And, is He not sovereign of Asia, as well as of Europe?
And, is He not ready to save here, as there? O my foolish,
unbelieving heart! I see the truth of these suggestions;
yet unbelief prevents me from taking the comfort of them. O
Lord, work faith in my heart; and enable me to glorify thee
by a firm reliance on thy promise, that thou wilt not leave
me, but wilt make me ‘more than conqueror through Him that
loved me,’ even Jesus thy Son: to whom with Thee and the
Holy Ghost be glory for ever!
“This morning several boats filled with natives came off:
the rowers, like the Catamaran Jacks in appearance and
dress: the masters or duboshes,[9] having white muslin
coats and petticoats. These duboshes are very obsequious,
very pressing of their services; and have written
characters, as from former masters; but many of these are
evidently forgeries. Many of our Bengal passengers are
gone on shore. I felt too depressed to go; and too much
interested in V. and Y. to leave them on board. Y. I hope,
seems in some measure, established in sound principles and
practice. V. alas, discovers a backwardness to converse on
religious subjects; and I fear, shuns me, lest I should
trouble him with them: he is, however, very regular in his
conduct; and much respected by his associates. But, Oh!
what avails a mere name to live?--He is now gone on shore.
Y. remains on board, with the other Madras cadets, until an
order for their disembarkation arrives. O Lord, keep them
by thy power! O let not Satan triumph over them, for Jesus
Christ’s sake. Amen.
“MADRAS, Wednesday evening, Aug. 27th, 1806. Went on shore,
and was much annoyed by the clamorous importunity of the
natives, who were waiting in hundreds on the beach to carry
the luggage, or otherwise serve the new comers: their
harsh language, and their almost naked bodies, their eager
and obtrusive offers of service disgusted and wearied me
exceedingly. With some difficulty, I got through the crowd;
and, on arriving at the New Navy Tavern, found some of my
old shipmates. Here we were again importuned by duboshes
who were eager to serve us. We made choice of one who
proved a notorious cheat: he made off with six rupees given
him to hire a _bandy_;[10] and I know not yet how much
linen he may have stolen. The profusion of silver or gold
rings which the natives wear on their arms, their ancles,
their ears, and their toes, appeared odd to me; their
offers of service and their whole conduct, whilst I was on
shore, have impressed my mind with an opinion of their deep
depravity, and their entire want of principle....
“On Thursday, August 28th. Parson and I went to call on
the London Society’s missionary. Though unknown to him,
and though carrying no letter of introduction, yet I was
certain that if he were a real missionary, we should be
welcome; and I was not disappointed in this expectation.
We received a cordial reception: Martyn having mentioned
my name, we soon became cordial. He appears a humble pious
man, not destitute of ability, with a degree of zeal: his
education appears to have been confined. Here we learned
that Dr. Ker, the Senior Chaplain, had a letter for me from
Martyn; and that, being obliged to go to Seringapatam for
the recovery of his health, he had left it at the house
of Mr. Torriano. Thither Mr. L. drove me in his bandy,
leaving Mr. Parson to walk back to the inn. On arriving
at Mr. T.’s, I found the letter, enclosed in one from
Dr. Ker, recommending me to accept Mr. T.’s invitation to
take up our abode with him; which we did, and experienced
much hospitality and kindness. Mr. T. is a self-taught
Christian indeed: his son is a sensible and very pious
youth, and showed us much brotherly love; and from the
Lieutenant we received great regard. Next day Mr. P. and
myself called on Mr. V. and found him very reserved: he
afterwards, on further intercourse, became more sociable;
and engaged me to preach for him on Sunday the 31st; which
I did, and took for a subject the character of Josiah. The
Governor, &c., were present; and the church was pretty
full: the congregation was very attentive; though some, I
hear scoffed; but others expressed their approbation. In
the evening P. officiated at the chapel, Black Town, and
expounded the first chapter of the Epistle to the Romans.
I went to hear Mr. L. who preached from Psalm xxxvii. 40.
During our stay on shore, I went often to the cadets’
tents, and have reason to be thankful. Found V. and Y. kept
free from the vices of the place.
“Friday evening, Sept. 5th. I read a portion of the church
prayers, and addressed an exhortation to the boys at
the Asylum. There are about two hundred half-caste boys
educated there, and maintained by public subscription.
Dr. Ker is Superintendent; and Mr. L. is acting Master.
During our stay at Mr. Torriano’s, our apartment was a tent
comfortably fitted up, where Mr. T. generally (his son V.
always), comes morning and evening to join in worship. The
fort is a most complete structure, seemingly defying the
power of man to take it: the buildings within it are very
sumptuous. The Black Town far exceeds my expectation, in
the commodiousness of its houses, and in their structure;
but the streets are narrow; and the dust and filth in
them render the town exceedingly unwholesome. I do not
find the heat by any means so oppressive as I expected:
morning and evening it is as cool as summer in England.
I frequently walked several miles. The Europeans are,
in general, very averse to the idea of evangelizing the
natives. The chaplains consider it as a hopeless case; and
others look upon it as needless and impolitic. I lament
that my mind was not more affected with the stupid idolatry
of these depraved people. Their pagodas abound; and their
attention to them might shame people of purer principles;
whilst their depraved morals show that their religion is
confined wholly to externals; and that they are incapable
of communion with a holy God. These considerations ought
to impress me more. O the unconquerable hardness of this
stupid heart! Yet, blessed be God, who has reconciled
my mind more to the work of the ministry here; and has
influenced me to prefer the honour which cometh of God,
more than the favour of men. I think I am more determined
than ever on publishing salvation to these ignorant
heathen. I have to lament that my mind seldom experienced
any sensible comfort in God, whilst on shore: deadness and
oppression overspread my soul for the most part; yet, I do
not recollect, except on one occasion, that I attempted
to shun the reproach of the cross; and, in general I was
enable to introduce serious subjects.
“Sunday, Sept. 7th. Came on board the Alexander, in
consequence of the Asia being ordered round by Penang, to
take troops to Bengal: much heaviness of mind on account of
the state of those around me....
“Saturday, Sept. 13th. On Tuesday evening last, we came
to anchor off Masulipatam. During that day, in making
in to the shore, the ship was found in three and a half
fathoms (she draws three fathoms;) consequently great
alarm prevailed, every one expecting that she would strike
instantly. The wind being brisk, the ship answered the
helm; and, by the Divine favour, we got clear of the
danger. In the afternoon, a ship which had been in sight
for some days, hauled her wind and stood our course: this
raised a suspicion of her being an enemy; the drum beat to
quarters and every preparation was made to prevent her
boarding us. After some time, she hoisted Danish colours,
and came to anchor near us off Masulipatam. During these
two times of alarm, I recollect to have been much more
anxious as to the event, than on former times of danger
during the voyage; and have reason to fear I have suffered
damage, especially since we left Madras. This I know has
been the case, and I bless God who has given me to feel it,
and to lament it, and to strive and pray against it; and
(blessed be His name) not in vain.
“On Wednesday, Parson and myself went off together with two
officers of the king’s regiment: after a most unpleasant
passage of twenty-four hours, we arrived at Masulipatam, a
distance of not more than six miles in a straight line. Our
delay was owing to the land wind, which, blowing directly
opposite, drove us far to leeward, and obliged the men to
push the boat along shore with long poles; a tedious and
laborious operation. On entering the fort, we found that
Colonel Norris (to whom we had a letter of introduction
from his father-in law, Mr. Torriano,) was in the fort. We
went to his house, and on being introduced to his lady,
presented our letter, which she opened, and sent to the
Colonel, who was on a committee at the barracks. Breakfast
was got for us immediately, and every attention shown
us; after breakfast, the Colonel came in, and ordered us
change of clothes; after we had dressed, he came and shook
us very kindly by the hand, and said, he had an order in
his pocket, which obliged him to be particularly kind to
us. This order he punctually obeyed, shewing us every mark
of attention possible, and even regard.... The propriety
of conduct necessary in ministers, the characters of
many eminently pious missionaries, and of Christ and His
Apostles, were the principal subjects of conversation. May
God give a blessing to our poor attempts to spread the
savour of Jesus’ name; and may the Colonel’s kindnesses to
us be abundantly repaid out of the fulness of Christ! After
passing twenty-four hours very agreeably, and I trust not
unprofitably, we left Masulipatam yesterday about three
o’clock, with the purser; and though detained a short time
at the entrance of the river, from want of water, we got
on board the Alexander by five o’clock: the anchor was
weighed, and we set sail as soon as possible.
“Tuesday. Yesterday I was very unwell in consequence of
drinking too much water: the day passed in a restless,
unprofitable manner to myself. In the evening, I was
enabled to speak to the surgeon on the utility of prayer;
which I did because of some sarcastic remarks made, as
to the uselessness of the Bible and Prayer-book in time
of action; we being suspicious that there was an enemy’s
ship in view. He was silenced, and afterwards showed me
more than usual attention. We were looking out all the
afternoon of yesterday for a pilot; and came to anchor
at ten in the evening in Saugor roads, amidst a fleet
of Indiamen homeward-bound--two ships of war, with many
country ships--a most gratifying sight; though, I confess,
I felt little pleasure. The remembrance of dear relatives
filled me with deep regret, whilst the prospect of being
instrumental in furthering the Lord’s work in India filled
me with joy; and I felt I could forsake all for Christ’s
sake.
“Thursday. We came to anchor in Diamond harbour. The
sailing up the river was delightful; the green herbage
and foliage most refreshing to the eye; and the numerous
population raised wonder how provision could be found for
so many persons. The whole shore, as far as the eye could
reach, appeared one continued village on each side. The
sight of a burying-ground for Europeans at Diamond harbour,
with several monuments erected therein, tended to lessen
my joy; as did the death of Captain ---- of the 77th, for
whom the colours were hoisted half-mast high, and who was
buried in the sea the evening we lay at anchor, in Saugor
roads. Captain C----, Ensign W., Parson, and myself, left
the Alexander in a budgerow,[11] about nine o’clock, and
sailed from Diamond harbour about half past ten in the
evening.
“Friday, Sept. 19th. I went on shore in the morning at
Fulta, and sending some provisions on board to my chums,
remained till flood-tide, which was not till two o’clock.
My mind was much gratified with the scene; the green fields
appearing here and there between the groves, were very
much like scenes I remembered in England; many birds were
singing much like the nightingale; herds of cattle, of the
buffalo breed, with herdsmen tending them here and there on
the bank. A dead body floating on the river created much
horror in my mind; and the bird called the adjutant excited
much surprise. At Fulta I found a very elegant inn, and
accommodations very reasonable. Having placed a chair at
the gate-way on the elevated situation on the bank of the
river, the opposite bank appeared covered with villages,
and the surface of the river with boats. I took out my
bible, and read the 60th chapter of Isaiah. The precious
promises of the enlargement of Christ’s Church came with
much power to my mind; the last verse was very encouraging,
and raised much joy, from the hope that I might be honoured
to be one of ‘the little ones’ who should ‘become a
thousand, and a strong nation.’ The prospect of all these
swarms of people bowing to the sceptre and dominion of
Jesus, filled my soul with exultation. I found much freedom
in prayer, and spent some time in joy and rejoicing. The
budgerow being much longer in coming up than was expected,
occasioned great anxiety; and, to my shame be it spoken,
impatience. O how fickle is my mind: but Jesus liveth, and
He changeth not! Blessed be God for Jesus Christ! I came on
board about two o’clock this afternoon; and we are now at
anchor about ten miles below Calcutta.
“Sept. 21st, 1806. Yesterday morning, being tired of
waiting any longer for a fair wind, I left the budgerow
about five o’clock, and came up in the tow-boat to
Calcutta. The scene on each side of the river was much
the same as during the preceding day; but being indisposed
from want of food, and by exposure to the sun, I felt but
little lively joy. Read in the Bible, and Newton’s Hymns;
and found much desire to be grateful for preservation
during the voyage, for meeting with kind friends, and for
the abundant supply of every temporal want; above all, that
notwithstanding my manifold failings, some sense of my
obligations to God in Christ still remains. The sight of
Calcutta afforded me great satisfaction: the approach to it
was tedious; and I felt some impatience at the perversity
of the boatmen. Alas, the depravity of my nature is but
little subdued! I walked up to the church, and inquired
in vain for Martyn: went to Doughty’s hotel, where I met
V. at the door, who, I feared, was oppressed in spirit
and suffering from the effects of climate. I took some
refreshment, and was about to go forth in quest of Martyn,
when a note arrived from him, desiring me to go to him in
the college.[12] I set off immediately, and was received
by him with the most lively demonstrations of joy. Here I
was desired to take up my abode; and here I am fixed for
the present. Mr. Brown,[13] to whom I am indebted for my
present entertainment, appears a sensible, determined,
pious man; very different from the descriptions I heard of
him during the voyage.”
On the same day, in which these particulars are noticed in his
journal, Mr. C. sent a letter to his sister; written, as it appears,
at intervals during his voyage, and communicating information up to
the period of his arrival at Calcutta. The letter itself is not less
remarkable for its plain good sense, than as manifesting that strong
natural affection and love of country, which entered so largely into
the character of the writer:
“From the date of this letter, (Sep. 21st.) you will
perceive how much longer our voyage has proved than at
the beginning of it we hoped it would. Twenty weeks are
completed since we left Portsmouth: the usual time a voyage
of the kind occupies is about fifteen weeks. The chief
part of our delay was between St. Iago, and the Cape of
Good Hope. Before we arrived at St. Iago, we had fair and
strong winds; and since we got round the Cape, the weather
has proved most agreeable. A thousand anxious thoughts
daily fill my mind on your account: separation from you has
only tended to show how much my comfort depended on you:
scarcely for two successive waking hours has your image
been out of my remembrance. I am very anxious that you
should come out to me; and I am very anxious respecting
your voyage. You have little, humanly speaking, to fear
from dangers of the sea. Your greatest inconvenience
will arise from not having a person with whom you can
communicate freely: to be under a restraint of this kind,
for five months, is a greater evil than you can at present
suppose. You will, no doubt, hear of some lady coming
out, with whom you can take half of a cabin; and if such
an opportunity offers, you need not hesitate to embrace
it. But you will need to use great caution how you trust
strangers; and by no means be too familiar with any of
the passengers, till you have had time to observe their
dispositions: the evil of a contrary conduct has appeared
very strikingly with us; and still more so in some other
of the ships of our fleet. It is very easy to assume an
appearance of gaiety and good-humour, when people only
meet occasionally, and for a short time; but when they
come to live together, and are obliged to meet each other
at every turn, without Divine grace, few tempers are found
sufficiently accommodating to maintain that forbearance,
and to make those concessions, which are absolutely
necessary to peace and comfort. Hence, when by an unguarded
confidence, persons of contrary dispositions and habits
have committed themselves to each other, they soon become
mutually disgusted; family circumstances are exposed;
weaknesses ridiculed; and contempt and hatred follows. You
see I write under the idea that you will not leave England
till you hear of my arrival in India. I have only to add,
that my health is much improved since I left you.
“Since I began this letter, a variety of events have taken
place, and crowd so fast on my mind, that I know not
where or how to relate them. On entering Madras roads in
the evening, the lights reflected from the houses built
on the shore, with the sound of the sentinels’ voices
passing the word, and the striking of the clocks, formed
altogether the most remarkable impression I recollect in
life. After having for five months been separated from the
civilized world in a great measure, and having seen only
the boundless ocean, and occasionally hailing some of our
consorts, you may suppose the entrance into society was
highly gratifying. My joy was silent, and chiefly expressed
in ejaculations of praise to Him who had so graciously
preserved us through the great deep; nor were wanting
prayers for my native land, and for the many dear objects
left behind. This pleasant temper of mind was, however,
of short continuance, as soon as we came to anchor, some
of the natives came off in catamarans; they were almost
naked, and very savage in appearance. The consideration of
being, in all probability, to spend the remainder of my
life among such wretched beings, filled me with melancholy;
and rendered me sleepless during the greater part of the
night; and the whole of the next day, I was very unhappy.
But you will perceive my sin and unbelief in this matter;
as their wretchedness should rather have excited compassion
and anxiety for bettering their condition: the idea of no
further comfort remaining for me, certainly arose from the
absence of the proper influence of that precious truth, ‘If
He give peace, who then can cause trouble?’ I perceive this
clearly now; and I am thankful that I am able to take the
comfort of it to myself. During the whole of our stay, the
anniversary festival of one of their idols was celebrating
at a pagoda or temple, in sight of the house where we were.
Their chief solemnities were celebrated during the night;
and consisted in most wretchedly bad music, something like
bad bag-pipes, accompanied with a tom-tom, or small drum
unbraced, and incapable of music; with these, at intervals,
loud shouts were set up by the people, and something of a
song in praise of their idol sung in alternate strains,
which were responded by the people to each other in a
sing-song tone of voice. O what a blessing is the Gospel
to mankind! Well might the angels sing at Messiah’s birth,
‘goodwill towards men,’ no less than ‘glory to God!’ How
lovely does Christianity appear, contrasted with the
absurdities of these pitiable heathen! O, how privileged
is Britain, where Divine truth shines forth in all its
purity! May my happy native land know the value of her
privileges, and improve them: O that, to latest ages, her
rulers may continue nursing fathers, and nursing mothers
to the Church; and use their widely-extended influence in
rendering their colonies happy as themselves!”
[6] In 1806, Napoleon placed his brother, Jerome
Buonaparte, in command of a squadron of eight ships
of the line, which were ostensibly destined for the
West Indies.
[7] Cadets.
[8] A species of raft used by the natives of Madras.
[9] A kind of general Agent.
[10] A kind of gig.
[11] A native travelling boat.
[12] The College of Fort William.
[13] The late Rev. David Brown, at that time Chaplain at
the Presidency, and Provost of the College of Fort
William.