Parramatta 6 Sepr 1814 Revd and Dear Sir I yesterday received your letter bearing date Decr 9th 1813 with the Church Missionary Register up to November which I intend to distribute agreeable to the instructions I received from you. I feel grateful for those expressions of regard contained in your letter for the welfare of me and my family. For further particulars concerning us I must refer you to a Letter sent from Port Jackson by the Brig James Haye, to a second sent from Van Dieman’s Land by way of India, and to a third sent from the Bay of Islands by the aforesaid Brig. The latter would acquaint you with the friendly reception I and Mr Hall met with amongst the Natives of New Zealand upon our first appearance on their shores, and I have now the pleasure to transmit to you an Account of my proceedings during the Voyage from “Port Jackson” to New Zealand with general remarks, Copies of Letters, &c which I request you will lay before the Hon[oura]ble Committee. I attend to such things as I conceive the Committee will think worthy of their notice, and I hope they will overlook such [f] observations as they do not deem interesting. Upon my arrival in New South Wales in the month of October last, & at my first interview with Mr Marsden, he expressed his regret “that the attempt to carry the glorious Tidings of the Gospel to New Zealand had been hitherto delayed” and he was therefore anxious that I should immediately give myself up to the work to which I had the honor and happiness to be appointed by the Hon[oura]ble Committee. His Excellency Governor Macquarie was also pleased to signify his concurrence with Mr Marsden respecting my departure and a passage was procured for me at the earliest opportunity. There are no regular means of conveyance from Port Jackson to New Zealand. It was consequently necessary either to hire or purchase a Vessel solely for the purpose of forwarding the benevolent designs of the Society. Mr Marsden failed in his attempts to hire one and therefore purchased the Active Brig. At the time the purchase was made the Active was laden with Government Stores and bound for Hobart Van Diemans Land. This being the case it was not deemed advisable to unlade her but to let her proceed to the place of her original destination and from thence to direct her course for New Zealand. Monday March 7th was the day appointed for my embarkation and I was accompanied from Parramatta to the Active by Mr William Hall and my young friend [f] Toi a Native of New Zealand whom I had some weeks before received under my protection by the desire of Mr Marsden. I here subjoin a List of the names of the Captain and Ships Company with the respective places of their nativity and also a copy of Mr Marsden’s instructions to the Captain. The Ships company consists of individuals chiefly from different nations each of them knowing something of the English Language. Names Names Mr Peter Dillon Master Ireland Bobbahee— Owhyhee Mr David Siepke Mate Germany Dikkahee Bolabola John Wilson Boatswn England Fredc Wormbey Sweden Jno Hunter Carpenter New Holland Babbaro Otaheite Thos Hamilton Cook Ireland W m Jones England Wm Mansel N.America Toi Apafonga N Zealand Abm Wilson Norway At the Derwent Mr Rodman Chace (an American) entered as mate in the place of David Siepke A Copy of Mr Marsden’s Instructions to Captain Dillon Sydney March 9. 1814 Sir You will proceed with all possible despatch to the River Derwent with the Active Brig and deliver the Stores on board to the person authorized there to receive them. After [f] you have discharged the present Cargo you will then with as little delay as possible sail to the Bay of Islands on the Coast of New Zealand. On your Arrival you will open a friendly intercourse with the Natives particularly Duaterra, Terra, Kowheitee, Kurrokurro and any other chief that may promote the Object of the Voyage. The main Object of this voyage is to promote a friendly intercourse with the Natives of New Zealand. You will do all you can to prevent any quarrel between the Natives and the Ships Company. If Duaterra or any other Chiefs wish to come to Port Jackson you will receive them on board when you finally leave the Island. Or if they wish to send any of their children to be instructed or a Young Man or two these you may bring. I wish the Natives to be treated with the greatest kindness while you remain there and every thing to be done that can with prudence to gain their confidence. You will inform them that it is my intention to visit them when the Vessel returns, and that I wish a chief to come over to Port Jackson in order that I may enter into some arrangements with him for their benefit. With respect to the Articles you will bring back in the Vessel, these must depend upon circumstances. I should wish you to bring as much Hemp as you possibly can. [f] Such Spars and timber as you may with Mr Hall judge valuable. Pork if it is to be obtained and salt Fish, Rosin or any other natural productions. I wish you to fill up with Potatoes, they had better be kept in the baskets in which the Natives bring them as I think they will keep better that way. On the Sabbath Day I wish Mr Kendall to read on board when the weather will permit the Prayers of the Church. And when you arrive at New Zealand I desire that you will be very particular in the observance of the Sabbath Day; not to buy or sell any thing on that Day, but all the sailors to be clean and do no work. Messrs Hall and Kendall will do all they can to procure a Cargo for the Vessel towards defraying the expence along with you, and I hope you will shew every attention to them and make their situation as comfortable as possible. Should Mr Kendall and Mr Hall wish to remain a few days longer when the Vessel is ready you will be good enough to allow them, in order that they may form any plan for their future settlement at New Zealand, or to gain any information respecting the Island for the future guidance of the Church Missionary Society. I am Yours &c Saml Marsden P.S. I wish you not to allow any private trade with the Natives nor any natives to be brought on board by the Ships Company without your particular permission. And to prevent all quarrels as far as possible, you will not suffer any of the native women to come on board, as this Voyage is for a particular object. [f] Although in many important points Mr Hall and I differ widely in our opinions, and I have to record with grief that we are almost in all respects like unto two individuals sent out by two different Societies of Christians, yet I think it my duty to take notice of his proceedings as often as I can, they are so nearly connected with my own. You will be glad to hear that as soon as we embarked on board the Active it was agreed upon that we should unite in prayer and praise to God every morning and evening, and alternately read a portion of the Holy Scripture for our mutual comfort and edification. And as Mr Hall did not seem to approve of the idea of adhering to Mr Marsdens instructions to the Captain respecting my continually reading the Prayers of the Church upon the Sabbath Day I readily consented that he should sometimes enjoy this priviledge. In forming any plan that has for its object the Glory of God and the good of Souls, it becomes those who are engaged not to be so much solicitous about the observation of things that are indifferent as that the glorious Name of the Ever Blessed Jesus may be magnified and that Peace, Harmony and Christian Concord may characterize every plan for the accomplishment of this great object. The Active sailed from Port Jackson on Monday March 14th and [f] came to an Anchor near Hobart Town on Tuesday April 12th. A few days after our arrival here we were visited by Warrakkee a Young Native of the Bay of Islands who was very desirous to accompany us in the Active thither. He told us he had a great desire to see his mother and sister from whom he had been absent some years, but he had unfortunately signed an Article to serve in the Brig Spring a Vessel then laying near us and bound for Port Dalrymple and Port Jackson and neither the owner of the Vessel nor the Captain were willing to part with him. On Wednesday May 11th Moroo another Native of the Bay of Islands was sent on board to us by Captain Dillon. He had formerly lived with Mr Hall and hearing of us while he was at Port Dalrymple he left his ship there, and came over by land performing his journey through the Woods in five days. His Captain sent after him but I am happy to say that without much difficulty I succeeded in gaining for him his liberty. The following Copies of Letters contain an account of my proceedings in his behalf. Warrakee I found with Mr Marsden after my return to Port Jackson. Brig Active 18 May 1814 Sir I beg leave respectfully to submit to your consideration the case of Moroo a Native of New Zealand who has made [f] application for a passage on board the Active but against whom a detainder [sic] is laid in the Secretary’s Office by Captain Stuart. Moroo informs me that he suffered much while under the command of Captain Stuart for want of food &ca and hearing of the Active being at this settlement he came over by Land from Port Dalrymple, and he has been received on board by Captain Dillon as a passenger in consideration of the services which he may possibly be enabled to render me and my colleague Mr Hall in our attempt to require a knowledge of the Native Language. I would suggest to your Honor, that many fatal occurrences have taken place in the South Sea Islands in consequence of the ill treatment which the natives have experienced from unprincipled Europeans, and many valuable British Seamen have fallen innocent victims to that usual mode of retaliation which they adopt after receiving an injury. And with respect to the New Zealanders it is well known that after they have been some time from their home they are exceedingly desirous to return, and every unkind disappointment of their wishes tends greatly to excite their resentment. It cannot be supposed that they are acquainted with the binding nature of an article at the time they sign it, and they must in certain cases on this very account deem the restraint a great hardship upon them. I therefore humbly request you will condescend to use your authority and influence in behalf of Moroo [f] as this may possibly be the only opportunity he may have for some years to come of visiting his near relations and his native Land. And am, Sir, Your very obliged and obedient Servant Tho Kendall His Honor Governor Davy &c &c Brig Active Hobart March 20. 1814 Sir, I shall esteem it a particular favor if you will use your influence in behalf of Moroo a Native of New Zealand who has made application for a passage on board this vessel, but against whom a Detainder is laid in the Secretary’s Office by Captain Stuart. I will undertake to be answerable for Moroo’s return to Port Jackson and if he is indebted to Captain Stuart five or six pounds I will readily pay it should it please Divine Providence to conduct me in safety to New South Wales, and am, with much respect, Sir Your obedt Sert Tho Kendall James Gordon Esq Naval Officer &c Hobart. Before I left the River Derwent I had the pleasure of receiving a Letter from Mrs Kendall of which the following is a Copy. [f] Parramatta 19 March 1814 My Dearest It is with some pleasure I write to inform you we are all well as I hope these lines will find you. I get better spirits than I had; when you first left me I was low and dull, but I hope God will protect you and send you safe home to your family. All the children have had very bad eyes. Thomas has been quite blind, but they are now better. Richard Stockwell conducts him self very well and is very attentive. He is busy in the Garden. Mrs Marsden and family frequently pay me a visit. It is a great comfort to me in your absence to have such friends so near me. My Dear love, I did not think I could bear your absence from me so long as we have lived ten years together so very happy. God grant we may meet again and spend many more years together as happy. I do not care where I am if we are together. I cannot bear the thoughts of being parted. I think the time very long. I always pray for you every night and morning that God may bless you in your undertaking and protect you from the cruelty of the Heathen, and conduct you in safety to your family so that we may unite again in praying to and praising him. Our Dear Children [f] join with me in love to you. Joseph (the youngest child about two years of age) says his father is gone to New Zealand he will kiss him when he returns home. They all want to see you very much. I am My Dear Yours &c Jane Kendall I and Mr Hall were treated with great kindness and hospitality by Lieut. Govr Davy, the Revd Mr Knopwood & some other Gentlemen at Van Dieman’s Land. We had an opportunity to make during our stay an excursion into the interior where we saw the Land in a state of cultivation. It produces very fine wheat, Barley and potatoes. Some tracts of good land are laying waste for want of Settlers to occupy them; and these covered with grass and in a great measure unencumbered with woods. Bread, Beef, Mutton, and Pork are very plentiful and the meat is nearly equal to that in England for fatness and quality. The wool is very coarse and of a hairy nature and it will not in all probability be materially improved until there is a demand for it. It lays here as it has done in some parts of New South Wales as an useless thing upon the Ground. Mr Marsden sent 10 Good Rams of the Merino Breed in the Active to assist the settlers in improving the Wool, six of which arrived in safety. The Population near the River Derwent including the [f] Settlement of Port Dalrymple amounts according to the latest returns to Two thousand and seventy seven persons, but I am sorry to observe in a religious point of view that appearances are very unfavorable. It was intimated to us by an aged friend(a) who paid us a visit “that “there could be no situation throughout the “world were [sic] a Missionary was more wanted than at Van Diemans Land. “I am now” said he “advanced in years and it cannot be expected that I I “shall live long, but it is my prayer that a pious minister may be sent out and “that I may have another opportunity of hearing a Gospel Sermon before I “die.” I heartily join our friend in the above wishes. A Pastor of established piety might I have no doubt by the Divine Blessing erect a Noble standard there to the honor of his Divine Master. Amongst such an hospitable people Schools might be instituted and supported with out difficulty & much good done in the Colony. The Natives of Van Diemans Land have been very ill treated indeed and banished entirely from those parts which are colonized by Englishmen. Many of them have been shot by our people and the Bushrangers who have made their escape from the Settlements have for fear of being discovered by any communication which the Natives might have with the settlers killed them without mercy. Hence the Natives retaliate and commit depredations as they find opportunity. There are no Natives at the Settlement except some children who have been taken away from their Parents. At Sydney and Parramatta the Natives can ((a) Mr Patterson who knows my friend the Revd Mr Waugh) and [f] do reside without fear or molestation but here they cannot profit by their Intercourse with Englishmen. There were several Men, Women, and children who were passengers on board the Active from Port Jackson to Van Diemens Land. Two Children learnt correctly the Card for Sunday Schools for which I rewarded them by giving each a Bible. After I had read the Prayers of the Church I usually spent a few minutes in reading some important “extract” or laying before the Sailors and Passengers the most essential truths of the Christian Religion. Seafaring men have alas! few opportunities of repairing to Public Worship and hearing the Holy Scriptures enforced & explained. The fall of Man; his lamentable departure from God; his utter inability to help himself; his ransom and acceptance by Jesus Christ, and the duties of the Christian Life are little understood by many of them; nor do they conceive the happiness which accompanies a cordial reception of Divine Truth. They are a most useful body of men; they have souls that never die, it is therefore necessary and indeed a part of our duty to pay all the attention in our power to their instruction. On Monday May 23rd the Active sailed from the River Derwent for the Bay of Islands. After a good passage we came to an anchor near Tippoonah on Friday June 10th.— Duaterra we were informed was at his farm in the interior, but hearing of a Vessel being in the Harbour he came over to Tippoonah in [f] the night and paid us a visit on the friday morning. I put into his hands a Letter from Mr Marsden, of which the following is a copy:— Parramatta March 9, 1814 Duaterra King I have sent the Brig Active to the Bay of Islands to see what you are doing, and Mr Hall and Mr Kendall from England. Mr Kendall will teach the Boys and Girls to read and write. I told you when you was at Parramatta I would send you a Gentleman to teach your Tamoreekes and Koeteedo’s to read. You will be very good to Mr Hall and Mr Kendall. They will come to live in New Zealand if you will not hurt them, and teach you how to grow Corn, Wheat & make Houses and every thing. Charles has sent you a Cock and Mrs Marsden has sent you a shirt and Jacket. I have sent you some wheat for seeds and you must put in into the ground as soon as you can. I have sent you a mill to grind your corn. If you will come in the Active to Parramatta I will send you back again. Send me a man or two to learn to make an axe and every thing. You will send the Active full of Moca, Potatoes, Lines, Mats, Fish, Nets, and every thing. I have sent a Jacket for Kowheetee. Tell him to assist you and Terra to laiden the ship. You will be very good to all my men and not hurt them and I will be good to you. Ann, Elizabeth, Mary, Jane, Charles, Martha, Nanny and Mrs Bishop, Mrs Marsden are all well, and wish to know how you are. If you do not come to see me send me word by Mr Kendall [f] and Mr Hall what you want and I will send it to you. I am Your friend Saml Marsden Duaterra gladly received Mr Marsden’s Letter and was very much pleased with the arrival of his promised friends. I and Mr Hall accompanied him to his principal Hipwah or Town called Ranghee Hoo. It consisted of several Warree’s or small Huts about five feet in height, seven in breadth, and eight or ten feet in length. We were presently surrounded by many native Men, Women, and Children who conducted themselves towards us in the most friendly manner, and as we repeated our visits their friendship for us became the more apparent. The Tohangha Rakoo’o paid great attention to Mr Hall, and the children who were at first afraid to come near me, as soon as I had earned their confidence would follow me to a great distance to take hold of my hand. In Duaterra’s Store rooms were deposited Rum, Tea, Sugar, Flour, Cheese and two chests of European raiment. One of these places was unlocked, and although the residence of Duaterra is sixteen miles distant yet everything remained safe and unmolested. In many little fenced plots of Land at Ranghee Hoo and other places we discovered several Hogs feeding. Pork is very plentiful. An Axe or a good Tokee will purchase one and sometimes two good sized Pigs. The soil is very good near Tippoonah notwithstanding the hilly nature of the Country. The Cultivated land produces potatoes, cabbages, turnips, carrots, Onions &c. Those parts which are not cultivated are generally covered with fern. [f] On the Sunday after our arrival at the Bay of Islands Mr Hall read upon deck the Prayers of the Church. The rain prevented the natives from coming to the Vessel at the time of Divine Service except two or three who had slept on board. In the Afternoon the weather was fine and I and Mr Hall paid a second visit to our friends at the Hipwah. They wished to trade with us but we told them it was a sacred day. Six Days men were allowed to work and every seventh day was appointed as a day of rest from labour, and to Kiak?a At?a; for this was the only term which we could then make use of in order to convey to their ideas our worshipping the Supreme Being. We said they might come to the ship with their property on the day following. We acquainted them with our intention of bringing our Wives and children from Port Jackson and residing amongst them, and to some children I gave an invitation to go with us and learn the Book & see Mr Marsden, for it must not be omitted that the name of Mr Marsden is well known at the Bay of Islands. The Natives make mention of him in their songs and speak of him with respect. The children and their Parents seemed pleased with the invitation but at that time we did not fix upon any. June 13th I Mr Hall and Toi took a walk into the interior with Duaterra to see his farm. We passed by the Hipwah Teepookay and some of the Natives meeting us took hold of our hands in a friendly manner and requested us to eat with them. After some little conversation we proceeded on our way over some swamps and exceeding [f] high hills. We observed no woods near us of any magnitude and the tops of the Hills were generally fertile and covered with good soil. Plenty of good water is every where to be found. At length we came to Duaterra’s farm which is called Motoo Terra. In an enclosure he had sown some wheat which was already five or six inches above the ground, and his people were busily employed in clearing more land upon which he intended to plant potatoes and to sow two bushels of wheat that we had presented to him by the desire of Mr Marsden. Mr Marsden has sent a steel Mill to Duaterra to enable him to grind his wheat as soon as it will be ready. The Natives could not believe Duaterra that it was possible to make Bread of Wheat until he showed them the mill from which as soon as they perceived the flour issue, they burst out in expressions of surprize and admiration. Mr Charles Marsden sent Duaterra two Cocks and two Hens, and in return Duaterra put on board the Active a Sow in Pig which is now at Parramatta under the charge of his young friend. Duaterra is chief over the People of four Districts. His Territory is extensive and he has four hundred fighting men under his command. He has a friend whose name is Way who has two hundred. His Uncle Kangroha has three hundred and his Uncle Shunghee has six hundred. Shunghee was introduced to us by his Nephew on thursday June 16th. He is a Warrior but apparently a man of a very mild disposition. And altho, this is the first time he has had any intercourse with Europeans he is remarkably steady and decent in his outward [f] behaviour and has little appearance of the savage about him. He is chief over the People of seventeen places: is a man of a very ingenious turn and is very desirous to learn the European Arts. He shewed us a Musket which had been stocked and mounted by his own hands, and the performance does him much credit, since he had no man to instruct him. He has several muskets in his Possession. The Natives of New Zealand procure these destructive Articles and powder & shot from Vessels which touch upon the coast for fresh water, fresh provisions, Spars & ca. Wednesday June 15th. It was a providential circumstance that the Brig, James Haye should at this time put in to the Bay of Islands as it afforded me an opportunity to write to the Society and acquaint them that I was at length arrived at my Journey’s end. I dined with Captain Foldger, and Mr Andrews who accompanied me and Mr Hall to the Shore, and with whom we had the happiness to unite in Prayer for the Success of the Mission would I have no doubt upon his arrival in London acquaint you with many interesting particulars. He had kindly paid a visit to our families at Parramatta according to your desire. We were now visited by the Aged chief Terra, his Wife and one attendant and I presented to Terra a Letter from Mr Marsden nearly similar to the one I had previously delivered to Duaterra. Terra requested the Captain to take the Vessel near to Korrorahrekka his residence on the other side of the Bay of Islands about ten miles distant from Tippoonah. This was done, and presently a number of canoes came alongside. I accompanied [f] Terra and his party to the shore and in return for the kind treatment they had received on board I was presented with five baskets of potatoes. I have met with the same friendly treatment amongst the natives at Korrorahrekka as I have experienced in other places and have observed them at their daily work. One day Terra and about forty others (men and women) were very busy in preparing an allotment of land for Potatoes, and Koomara (or Kymouru, a sweet potato) for the ensuing year. Some of the Natives were busy in digging the soil, others in clearing it of roots and rubbish which they placed upon heaps and others in burning those heaps. Terra appears to be near seventy years of Age; He presides over the people of Seventeen Places. On Friday June 17th Whetttohee (who is also called Pomarree) a person from Mattow Hooka invited me to go to his Hipwah and upon my accepting the invitation he further proposed to shew me the place where some timber might be procured for the Vessel if I would accompany him thither. Accordingly we set out in the afternoon in his Canoe manned by his own people. The day was very fair; After rowing several miles and it began to be very late the whole party stept on shore. There we made a good fire, and I slept (a) by the Side of Whettohee having for my bed some dry fern, and his Kakkahow and the canopy of Heaven for my covering. I mention this event with great pleasure and satisfaction; because the natives of New Zealand have been called a most dangerous set of men; that there is no trusting to them and that they will even destroy a man for the sake of a meal. But here if they had had the [(a) It was a still night; the atmosphere was serene and clear. The stars shone with peculiar lustre on my head; it was a season for contemplation, prayer and praise!] [f] least inclination to have done me an injury either in my person or property they had it in their power. I had no means of defending myself against them. I had it is true two Fowling pieces with me but they were both unloaded. Whettohee knew this for he had several times discharged them so that these would only have served to strengthen the temptation: for if any thing would tempt the Natives it would be a musket. They are so very fond of articles of this kind they will almost give any thing for them. But I slept secure, and felt happy that God had been pleased (for some good purpose as I trusted) to send me amongst them. However weak my talents, and myself altho’ sinful and defiled, I still pray & hope that God will for the sake of his own Great Name, make me useful in declaring the glad news of His Salvation amongst this benighted people. In the morning at an early hour we hastened to the Wood. Ahourakkee and the men he had with him there with all possible dispatch conveyed two good spars to the Waterside. This was attended with much labor as the timber lay at a distance of two or three hundred Yards from the River. But these stout active men soon cleared a path for it and drew it along, and I, Whettohee, Ahourakkee, Teekopiddee and some others proceeded to the Vessel with the Spars which we had procured and about half past ten Oclock in the Evening we finished our excursion. For these two Spars Ahourakkee received two Tokee’s and it was agreed upon that he should return to the Wood and procure as many more as he could, and convey them to the vessel in the course of a few days. The Wood was fourteen miles or upwards from the Active. Loads of excellent pine are to be found there. One piece which the Natives had cut down measured nearly 90 feet in length. [f] On Sunday morning June 19th I read upon Deck the Prayers of the Church. The weather was fine and several canoes with natives in them were by the side of the vessel. Two or three chiefs were also with us, and the behaviour of the Natives during Divine Service was very decent & commendable. It was a new thing with them to see our way of worship and to hear of a day of rest from labor, and they seemed to enjoy the idea very much. The Union Jack was hoisted on board the Active and Terra displayed his colours at Korrorahrekka in honor of the Day. Soon after Divine Service was over the natives departed from the Vessel, and in the afternoon I visited the Kapinghee a place of Whettohee in company with Mr Hall. The Natives were friendly indeed and to us the interview with the men women and children was very gratifying. I distributed on this day several religious Tracts amongst the Natives in order to give them some Idea of Books and to have noticed the eagerness and delight with which they all received them would have caused a tear, and excited a pious desire in a true believer in behalf of a people whom Satan has so long held in captivity. This people never had within their reach the means of instruction. Sunk as they are in human wretchedness and misery, no voice have they heard proclaiming the amazing love of God through a Crucified Saviour which could be a means of consoling their hearts or charming their ears! Oh what great priviledges to [sic] they possess who are brought up in a Christian Land! and what excuse can men thus highly favored make should they sin them all away and neglect the day of their visitation? [f] On Wednes Day [sic] June 22nd Mr Hall, Mr Chace and a party of seamen went up the river in one of the Boats as far as the Wood in order to procure some more spars. Mr Hall experienced the same friendly treatment as I had done and expressed his satisfaction upon the occasion. A few spars were obtained by the party belonging to the Active and Ahourakkee and the natives cut down several others and on the friday morning brought them to the vessel for sale. On the Saturday we agreed with Ahourakkee & his friends for some more spars, for the purpose of obtaining which they returned to the Wood on the Monday following. Sunday June 26. Mr Hall read upon deck in the morning the Prayers of the Church. The day was fine but no natives came near us. It would have been proper to have given some of the Chiefs an invitation to dine with us as they would have then been present at our Worship and known from the example of our people that the day had been observed as a day of rest, and I am sorry it was not done. Terra did not hoist his colours at Korrorahrikka as he had done on the Sunday preceding it. On Sunday July 3rd at a very early hour some natives brought to the vessel several Spars which they had procured the preceding week & offered to barter them with us for Tokee’s &c. This gave us another opportunity of reminding them of the Lords day and they cheerfully conveyed the timber to the shore where it remained until the Monday morning. The chiefs Shunghee and Whettohee attended while I read the Prayers of the Church and their behaviour was as usual strictly proper. On the Monday the Natives received Tokee’s &c for their Spars and [f] departed much pleased with their respective bargains. They brought upwards of Thirty Spars from the Wood at this time. Whilst these things were doing Duaterra and a party of friends were actively employed in cutting Koraddee (or Flax in the growing State) on the other side of the Bay. They conveyed several Boat Loads to a convenient place which was at a short distance from a Part of the Bay where there was good anchorage for the Vessel. On Tuesday July 5 I attended the Mourning ceremony for Toutoro a man who had died on the Sunday. The Corpse was neatly wrapped up in the clothing which had been worn by the deceased. The feet instead of being stretched out as is customary in England were “gathered up” in such a manner by his sides that I could not discern them. I heard the bitter lamentations of the women & the funeral song or ode of the Men. I witnessed a mock fight as a part of the ceremony and the whole party consisting of two or three hundred feasting upon Sweet potatoes by way of conclusion. The Women(a) cut their faces, breasts, and arms with sharp shells until they were covered with blood. Terra and his wife were there who paid great attention to me; wished me to sit near them and I was presented six [sic] baskets of sweet potatoes (or Kymouru) ready cooked for my dinner. Sunday July 10. Mr Hall read the Prayers of the Church. Shunghee and Shourakkee were present, but no other natives came near us. The Ship was too far from the shore & the wind blew fresh from the north west. (a) These were about six in number & were related to the deceased. [f] Monday July 11. I went to Korrorahrekka for the purpose of taking my leave of my friends the Natives. To Terra, Ahourakkee Whettohee and Kyterra I gave an invitation to accompany me to Port Jackson but they all declined accepting it. On tuesday July 12. Terra, Tupa, Whettohee and Ahourakkee seeing the Active in a state of preparation to depart fron Korrorahrekka came to bid us farewell. They breakfasted with us in the Cabin and attended Mr Hall and myself in our morning devotional exercises. They quietly kneeled down whilst we were engaged in prayer not offering to stir until we had done. I pray that the petitions which they heard but which they did not understand may be accepted by the most High God: And that he will bless our endeavours to acquire such a knowledge of their Language as will enable us in time to make known the glad tidings of the Gospel and direct the Attention of these poor benighted heathens to that Saviour who alone can enlighten their darkness by his Holy Spirit and by His precious Blood redeem their souls from misery. O blessed Lord fulfil thy gracious Promises that “all “nations whom Thou hast made may come and worship before Thee and “glorify thy name.” From Korrorahrekka The Brig Active was brought to a river called Manghonuee on the Tippoonah side of the Bay of Islands. Sunday July 17. I read the Prayers of the Church. Duaterra Shunghee and some other natives were present. On this day Toodeekahtacoo the wife of Shunghee, five children and some [f] friends came to the vessel upon a visit to Shunghee who had remained on board from the time of his introduction. I had sometime before this told Shunghee I wished to see Depero & Duingho his two little boys they were therefore permitted to remain on board with their father. Toodekahtakoo and the rest of the family settled themselves upon the shore at a short distance from the vessel. Friday 22nd. Having now received the Koraddee and Wood and Water on board the Captain signified his intention to quit the Bay of Islands. Many natives came to the vessel for the purpose of bidding farewell to Shunghee, Duaterra, Touhahnah and Ponappo who had embarked for New South Wales. The women especially Toodeekahtakoo the Wife of Shunghee and Dayhoo the Wife of Duaterra wept very much— In the Evening Kurrokurro and Taranghee two Brothers of Toi who were arrived at the Bay of Islands from a distant part of New Zealand (where they had been some months on a trading voyage) just in time to see their relation previous to his departure came on board & the interview was very affecting. They embraced each other & wept aloud a considerable time. On Saturday July 24th We were under the necessity of returning to Tippoonah from which place we had sailed the day before on account of contrary winds. Mr Hall read the Prayers of the Church upon the Sunday in the presence of Shunghee, Duaterra, Rakoo and some other natives who all conducted themselves exceeding well during Divine Service. [f] Monday July 25. The Active set sail for Port Jackson. Shunghee now consented that Depero his eldest son who is about eight years of age should now embark with us. Kurrokurro the brother of Toi was also received on board. Kurrokurro is a Chief, his residence is at Pahroa on the South side of the Bay of Islands. About one oClock in the day time I had a most providential escape from imminent danger. The Vessel was under way and I had incautiously seated myself upon the Top of a Water Closet which is raised above the quarter Deck in order to speak to some natives who were in Kurrokurro’s Canoe at the Stern. On bringing the main boom from the Starboard to the Larboard Side I was struck by it and forced overboard. I never had attempted to swim in my life I could therefore assist myself very little: but the natives in the canoe observing me fall came with all possible haste near me, and I was rescued by them from a Watery Grave. My left leg was severely bruized between the Boom & the water closet but not broken. This fresh instance of Divine Care and Goodness I desire to record with humble gratitude. God has in the the [sic] course of my past life graciously shewn me abundant instances of his mercy which loudly call for my zeal in his service & my faithfulness and love. My life has also been preserved thro’ the kind instrumentality of the People of New Zealand. I pray that the remainder of my life may be spent in humble endeavours to promote the Glory of God and the knowledge of his Salvation amongst a people who have been so ready to serve me. [f] It is recorded by Authors on Geography that “few Vessels ever left the “coasts of New Zealand without the loss of some part of their crew.” This is a serious charge which I cannot, however, believe to be true. When the New Zealanders are provoked by insult and ill treatment they will undoubtedly retaliate with the utmost fury, but I cannot learn that they have generally, if at any time, been the first aggressors. They have on the contrary in a variety of cases which have been incorrectly stated in British Newspapers suffered much from the tyranny and wanton abuse of those who by reason of the “Name” by which they are called ought to be distinguished by their mild and humane Dealing before they have returned the fatal blow. It is known that Captain Thompson had flogged(a) Tahrayha one of the chiefs now living at Whangaroa previous to the destruction of the Boyde; and the Island of the late Tippahee at Tippoonah had been laid waste, the houses burnt with fire, and several men, women and children shot before the Natives killed some sailors belonging to a Vessel named the New Zealander. From the best information which I have been able to obtain I cannot learn that Tippahee had any share in the guilt attending the destruction of the Boyde altho he has been charged as a confederate with the resident chiefs Tippoohee, Pippee and Tahrayha. The British Captains who united in revenging the Deaths of their countrymen appear to have been misled by some Natives who were Enemies of Tippahee. It is asserted by respectable characters, who have visited him after the affair of the Boyde, & to whom he was very kind, that Tippahee was a real friend to an European. {[a] Tahraha was sick five days on board the Boyde at the End of which he overheard CaptainThompson saying he would throw him overboard. He was forced out of bed by flogging. It is said that when his father met Captain Thompson on shore he killed him. [f] I met with a person at Tippoonah who informed me that many of our Sailors when they come into the harbour for necessaries make it their practice to cheat and defraud the natives exceedingly. That when the natives have parted with such commodities as they previously offer for sale they often receive little or nothing in return: and that this conduct and way of dealing is very painful to their feelings. They declared that if Englishmen would deal fairly the natives were disposed to pay every attention to them and to supply them with any thing they might want most chearfully [sic]. Indeed I do think this would be the case with many of the Natives. They have a particular desire to be at peace with us. They say we introduce amongst them potatoes, cabbages, turnips &c and tools of different descriptions which they are continually in want of. There is also another consideration which will operate most powerfully upon the people of New Zealand, and it will have a tendency to create in them much respect for Englishmen. They are particularly fond of Bread. When once there is a sufficient quantity of wheat grown so as to enable the natives generally to know its value they will esteem us highly and New Zealand may perhaps at some future day afford rich supplies of this Article to our Ships which traverse the Southern Pacific Ocean. A prudent caution is no doubt indispensibly [sic] necessary in providing for the security of Vessels which touch at New Zealand after there has been so many depredations committed that they are too numerous to admit of a recital. And if also in enlightened and civilized Nations the most salutary Laws and regulations with the power to put them into execution [f] are often insufficient for the protection both of persons and property, surely it cannot be expected but there are men so selfish in the unenlightened world that for the sake of gain they will not scruple to rob and plunder. That a Nation without religion is also deplorably corrupt it would be in vain to attempt to deny, yet with respect to a general knowledge of right and wrong it cannot be doubted but as a people is acquainted with so they act upon different principles. Duaterra says, “some of his countrymen are very good, will work “for their living and wish for improvement, while others are very bad, will “take a Ship, or steal any thing.” He is very desirous to have it in his power to adopt some salutary measures by which he may be enabled to keep in subjection unruly and mischievous men, and to establish Laws and regulations for the good order and well being of his People. He still is anxious to make a Sunday at New Zealand. The observations of my friend appear to be very correct and Englishmen(a) who touch at New Zealand would do well to convince the Natives that altho’ they are careful to keep the means of their preservation in their own hands they are really their friends and that they will not cheat nor defraud them. This done they would undoubtedly find many natives ready to supply them with the productions of the Island and render them other friendly services. For in my Opinion the true Character of the New Zealanders is not so despicable as Europeans are apt to imagine, and it has by some writers been very unfairly pourtrayed. [sic] (a) I mean Captains having charge of vessels. [f] In giving a fair account of a Savage Nation some allowance ought to be made for Ancient Customs and Usages which have been handed down from one generation to another for many ages. Because there are practices amongst the New Zealanders which are in their nature abhorrent to the tender feelings of humanity they have been condemned as the most dangerous and degraded of the human race. That the condition of these fallen sons and Daughters of our first Offending Parents “is very low” it is too true: but I trust I can with strict adherence to truth notice at least to my christian friends many favorable appearances which may induce them to attempt their improvement, and it affords me great pleasure that it is my province to do so. I have been told that there are usages of a barbarous nature amongst the People of New Zealand which are not approved by them all and those followed by some to which others are averse and which they hold in detestation, and I really have discovered in them all that I could expect in a Nation which has been for Ages lost in Heathen Darkness. I trust the time is now arrived when they are upon the point of emerging from that horrid state of barbarity for which they have been renowned. From even the slightest and most cursory observation of their manners and acquirements I am induced to indulge ideas of this nature. Altho many of them disfigure their faces and their raiment is the most uncouth in appearance of any I have ever before seen yet neither the men nor the women go naked. The men are also intelligent and many of them industrious and full of ingenuity; fit [f] for husbandmen and mechanics as soon as they shall be favored with the means of instruction. The women employ part of their time in making Kakkahows, Mats, Moka & ca and in all probability many of them would gladly learn to spin and knit stockings and the use of the needle. And the children are lively, active and witty. They made no stranger of me after my first appearance amongst them. When they saw me they usually said “How do you do Mr Kendano?” They then offered me their little parcels of Millo or thread which they had made with their own hands, and asked me for fish Hooks, nails and buttons in return. It has been truly said of the New Zealanders that they are a Noble Race of men. They stand in need of our friendship; and if proper steps were taken for their instruction in the Arts, attention paid to their wants and they were dealt with upon just and good principles they would by the Divine Blessing soon be brought over to a state of civilization. Then indeed might the Christian World “sow” in more eager expectation that the way was rapidly preparing in this part of the Earth for their Messengers & for the enlargement of the Redeemers Kingdom and that any attempt is making to accomplish this glorious object, however feeble, still let the faithful rejoice, and rest satisfied that God will in his own due time fulfil his gracious Promises. “The Glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” Tuesday July 26. Shunghee, Kurrokurro, Depero and Ponappa amused themselves by attempting to learn the Alphabet. Shunghee was so much delighted with it that he said he should continue [f] to learn it daily. I had some cards of letters and monosyllables by me, such as are used by the lower Classes in Doctor Bell’s System of Education and I proposed to give each of the Natives one fish hook for every page they should learn correctly upon my arrival in New South Wales. At this they expressed the greatest satisfaction and my little pupil Depero seemed transported with the idea of possessing some riches which he should have to shew his mother and his uncle Kangroha upon his return to his native land. The Natives pronounce with difficulty the Letters C, G, H, J, K and Z. The remainder of the English Alphabet they can articulate very well. It is my intention in my little Vocabulary of the Language to substitute K for the C. You will therefore find those words which I placed under C in the adjoining copy under K. As I get better acquainted with the Language I have no doubt but I shall find it necessary to make many corrections of my own words. The New Zealanders are averse to drinking Spirits. I do not think the Ava root which has done so much injury amongst the Natives at Otaheite grows there. One day when Whettohee and Toi were with me upon an excursion and I was reproving the latter for making use of some bad language which he had learnt from the Seamen Whettohee commended me for it very much. He repeated the Blasphemous Expressions of Englishmen saying they were “no good”, Yes and No (he said),were good words to make use of. [f] Ponahho, Depero and Shunghee learned the English Alphabet in five or six days. The latter has also written several copies of Letters some of which I send to you. The New Zealanders appear to have many deities, to which however, I cannot learn they pay any particular adoration. I think Atua is their name for the Supreme Being but I am not certain. Duaterra says the marriage contract is made at New Zealand in the following manner. When a young man forms an attachment for a young Woman and he is desirous to have her for his wife, he first consults her parents and brothers and sisters whose consent he must obtain. If these are agreeable and the young woman does not cry, she immediately becomes his wife. But if she cries the first night he pays her a visit or upon repeating his visit a second or third time she continues to do so he must drop his suit. Simple fornication is not considered a crime but if a woman is unfaithful to her husband he spears her. Adultery is punished with death. On Monday August 22nd The Active came to an Anchor at Port Jackson, I found my family well in health. My three eldest children during my absence attended School daily. The Natives have been well employed since their arrival at [f] Parramatta. Some of them have spent their time in taking a Survey of the Buildings and various improvements in the Colony, others in learning to read and write and Teahahnah has learnt to make nails & ca. They have been before Governor Macquarie. His Excellency has promised them a Bull & three Cows when they return, and some other useful articles. Mr Marsden has obtained leave of Governor Macquarie to accompany us and our families to New Zealand. We expect to embark the first week in November, I shall therefore be from hence entirely dependent upon the Society. I hope I shall do all in my power to ease the expences necessarily attached to the support of my family but you will see, My Dear Sir, and I do not doubt but you will be happy in the observation that upon my first setting out at New Zealand there will be an opportunity for me to spend the whole of my time in learning the Language and instructing the Children. If it also should please God to spare me with Life and I find I am encouraged in it, I should be happy to declare publickly amongst the People of New Zealand the Glad tidings of the Gospel, and in making this open disclosure of the sentiments of my mind altho’ I have an Eye to my own inability, yet that Ever Gracious God, who by the secret windings of his Providence, brought me, an obscure villager, out of my thraldom to the enjoyment of so many Gospel priviledges, & the Society of so many Christian friends, amongst whom I was, in some measure led to enter into the views [f] and feelings of a Missionary, is ready to be my support, and O! that I may always be ready to serve Him.— I shall not now have an opportunity to make use of several Tracts upon the Church Catechism, Cards of Prayer & ca the productions of my friend the Revd Basil Woodd and others with which I was provided previous to my departure from England, it is therefore my intention to distribute them amongst the Clergymen & Schoolmasters as I can do it to the most advantage in the Colony. The various curiosities which I collected at New Zealand & which are contained in the Package you will be so kind as to forward to my friends— I have requested you to send the Church Missionary Register and the Societys report annually to my friend the Revd Mr Myers North Somercotes near Louth Lincolnshire. I am under many obligations to this Gentleman, & I know he will be happy to hear of the State of the Settlement at New Zealand as well as the other important concerns of the Society. You will send me the “Third Volume” of the Societys Proceedings Bound to correspond with the two preceding ones. Periodical Publications & ca — Please to send some Paper for Letters &c Books for Memor[an]dms. Those children which I take under my care at New Zealand I shall have to maintain, but I trust this will be done at a small expence. Mr King will accompany us with his Wife & one child to New Zealand. They are in good health. [f] I have now finished my Narrative. You will have the goodness to present my duty to the Hon[oura]ble Committee. I recommend myself & family to their earnest supplications, that the Lord Jesus Christ may preserve us in the time of trial, enable us by the powerful operations of His Holy Spirit to know & do His Will and for his own Glory crown our endeavours with success. And am Revd and Dear Sir with Mrs Kendall’s united regards to yourself and Mrs Pratt & Children Your faithful Servant Tho Kendall The Revd Josiah Pratt, Church Missionary House Salisbury Square London [f] Postscript. There can be no doubt but the Language of the New Zealanders and Otaheitians and indeed of most of the natives of the South Sea Islands is radically the same. I have observed that A [sic] New Zealander can understand a Native of Otaheite, Bolabola, or Owhyhee in the course of a very few days. Mr John Eyre who has several years been under the protection of the London Missionary Society has obligingly furnished me with a Vocabulary containing several thousands of words in Manuscript from which I or any future servant of the Society may expect great assistance. Mr Eyre has been careful to note, as often as possible, the different parts of Speech in his Vocabulary.