Bay of Islands March 26th 1821 Revd and Dear Sir, It will afford you pleasure to hear that through the Lords goodness we all arrived here in safety in twelve days after you parted with us the weather was pleasent and the wind fair, and we have not suffered much through sea sickness. I can truly say that my heart rejoiced to find all the brethren here well and to all appearance comfortable and happy and the natives very familiar and kind. We have been kindly entertained at both settlements, and they have made as much progress in civilization as could be expected. I think there is much encouragement to attempt Schools and go round the Island and preach as soon as the Missionaries have [f] attained the language. I have been advising Mr Shepherd to begin a School at Kidi Kidi if he can only get five or six to attend and though they may be very irregular in their attendance. Perseverance will surmount every difficulty which lies in the way. I anticipate with joy the Triumph of the gospel here above all opposition. Accept my gratefull acknowledgments for your kind attention while I was in the Colony, and I pray that you may see the pleasure of the Lord abundantly prosper in your hands and all the New Zealanders cry out What have I any more to do with Idols. Wishing your family every blessing I am Revd Sir with the greatest esteem and respect your obedient and humb: Sert Chas Wilson Revd S. Marsden