you with news which will, I hope, cause the world. We should not be surprisyou to rejoice, and with us to bless oured at this; and still less so, when we good God and Father, the Author of all grace and of every good and perfect gift; inasmuch as, although it has seemed good to him to lead us through divers trials, he nevertheless does not abandon us to discouragement, but continues to give us evident tokens of approbation, causing us to rejoice, and strengthening us in the faith which was once delivered to the saints, and for which we contend according to the truth of the gospel. reflect that the protestant pastor, who visits them two or three times a year, has constantly warned them against the true disciples of Christ, under pretence of their being bigots, innovators, and separatists, who trouble the churches. This sufficiently explains why these people have remained, to this day, strangers to the benefits of the preaching of the pure gospel, although placed in the centre of several Christian congregations. Well then, a month since, br. Preuvot succeeded in making an agreed with the members of that little meeting, to go thither once a fortnight during the winter; hoping that when it comes fine weather, some one of us can two men especially in this village, who appear to be well disposed-they feel the need of a change of heart. These two are most anxious that we should visit them. I went thither the 17th of January. At the day-meetings, I had about 20 hearers; at the evening-meet You will therefore learn with emotions of gratitude, in perusing the de-opening for me there; and we two have tails which follow, that he has not only bestowed upon us blessings among ourselves, but also among those around us; and that although the new teachers* have succeeded, by their erroneous doc-be there every Sunday. There are trines, in closing some doors against us for a time, yet the Lord has opened others before us, where, enjoying the light of his countenance, and the teachings of his Spirit, we can publish the good news of salvation, with the hope that our labor will not be in vain; but that, blessed from on high, the doc-ing about30-among whom were several trine of truth, which is according to Roman Catholics. My little audience godliness, will exercise its mighty was exceedingly attentive, and in a power over the souls of men, to bring sort of amazement. We hope to conthem into subjection to the obedience tinue our visits to them in future. of Christ. Here I am constrained to May the Lord open their eyes, their say with the apostle, "Who is sufficient ears, and their hearts, that they may for these things?" But I am cheered comprehend the great love which he with the pleasing hope that he will has manifested towards us, in his wellperfect his strength through my weak-beloved Son; and that soon the song ness, and that, although we have this treasure in earthen vessels, it is in order that the excellency of that In the second place, I will speak to strength may not be ascribed unto us, you of another village, named Walinbut unto God, to whom belongs the court, situated two leagues from Bertry, glory of it, both in time and in eternity. where there appears to me to be a In the first place, I will mention to great opening. There is in this village you an opening which has been made a protestant assembly, of near 500 perfor us in a village named Maret, a sons. Only five or six persons know league and a quarter from Bertry. For the Lord. They were brought to the more than eighty years there have faith by some brethren of our church. been protestants in this village; but, A brother from that village, is a memhaving been very much neglected, ber of our church at Bertry. Br. Pouespecially since the revolution of '89, lain went frequently to hold meetings they have become either indifferent, at his house, at the time when he was or more the disciples of Voltaire than employed by the Baptist Society in of the Reformation. Nevertheless, a London. I made a proposition to this bromeeting of some fifteen persons has ther to establish a meeting at his house been established there for four years. again. He very willingly consented to But it is necessary to say, although it. I repaired thither for the first time these have retained some little out-on Thursday the 14th of January, and ward appearance of religion, and a sort I had the joy of finding from 30 to 35 of respect for the Bible, they are, not-persons assembled to hear the word of withstanding, the servants of sin and of life. After sermon I proposed to my * The disciples of Irving. of joy and thanksgiving may be heard in the midst of these dry bones. *They do not enjoy evangelical preaching. audience to have preaching regularly every Thursday. They acquiesced with enthusiasm, and since that time I have visited them every Thursday. My assemblies continue to increase, so that now I have more than 50 persons. I can truly say to you, that I have rarely had a prospect more encouraging. These souls, who generally begin to feel the need of being renewed in their life and conduct, are disgusted with the dry and lifeless preaching to which they have been accustomed, and wish some one to preach to them in a manner to instruct them, and to train them up for eternal life. I cherish a strong hope that the Lord has a people in that village, and that a work will be wrought there. Let us rejoice, but with a holy fear; for the great enemy of souls sleepeth not. Let us therefore watch and pray. Certain persons proposed to me, at the time of my last visit, to think about the means of procuring for us a hall, which might contain about 100 persons; adding, that from the zeal which was manifested, it would be filled on Sunday, if I came there to preach. In the third place, in regard to the places around us, where are little assemblies, which the Irvingites have disturbed and seduced by their false doctrines; things go pretty much as usual. For myself, at this time I think that it is much better for me to endeavor to take care of, and to confirm in the truth, those who have escaped their errors, and to preach the gospel in those places where there are openings for me, than to spend my time and strength in endless discussions, which, after all, amount to little. I have now come to the point where I must speak of the blessings which we have ourselves received-I mean at Bertry. Five new members were added to the church by baptism, on Sunday the 7th Inst. Two are of Bertry, two of Estourmel, and one from the Commune of Esne. These two last villages are situated two and a half leagues to the west of Bertry. We assembled the church at 8 o'clock, A. M., and we conversed with the candidates until half past ten. The following are some of the general views in regard to each, as I gathered them in our conversation. The first, named Jacob Jauquais, an old man of 74 years, resident at Bertry, was a catholic until the age of 71 years. He had the New Testament in his house during many years, without comprehending its distinguishing doctrine. Already had some brethren spoken to him of the salvation by grace, which he did not understand, when three years ago he heard Mr. Barbet preach at Reumont, upon the corruption of the heart of man, and upon free salvation by faith in Christ alone. He was then convinced of his sinful condition, and of his impotency to save himself. He then understood that there was in reality, no other method of escaping from the wrath to come, than that through faith in the Lord Jesus. He returned with his heart full, and pierced by the things which he had heard. From that moment he abjured catholicism, thoroughly convinced that its doctrine is erroneous. He regularly attended Christian assemblies, and was by degrees enlightened, and received from God the precious gift of faith, in which he was strengthened, and wherein he rejoiced in hope of eternal life. He made us acquainted with the exercises of his mind since that happy moment, and his experience, joined to the knowledge which the brethren have of him, did not permit us to hesitate in complying with his desire to submit to all the will of God. The second, named Elie Lefebvre, is a young man of 27 years, who returned from the military service a year since. He is also resident at Bertry. Although born a protestant, he had some prejudices against Christians until his return from service, which, joined to his carelessness about the condition of his soul, constantly removed him farther from every serious thought or research. Yet, as there was at Bertry no other meeting than that of the regenerate, he resolved to go and see and hear what was done and said there. He was wholly astonished to find more instruction in the sermons which he there heard, than in all those which he had ever before heard. He continued to attend regularly, and began to be very much troubled about his condition when I arrived at Bertry. My first sermons increased his trouble and agitation, but, a little after, as I was preaching upon the nature of true faith in Christ, he comprehended, and received from God the precious gift of faith. Since then, he has given unequivocal proofs of true piety, and of the desire which he has to consecrate himself to the service of his God. The third, Jean Batiste Gérard, resident at Estourmel, 44 years old, of * A term of reproach given to real Christians. long defer the being baptized according to the word of God. The fourth-Auguste Latour, also resident at Estournel, about 50 years old, a Roman Catholic by origin, had also bought a Bible, which he read with pleasure, but which he very little understood. He was a neighbor of Gé Roman Catholic origin, was converted to the Lord about two years and a half ago. He had the Bible more than a year, and, even before he had the word of God, he was tormented in his conscience, in regard to his spiritual state. He bought the Bible, hoping to obtain from it light and consolation. He obtained, at first, a part of what he expect-rard, and keeper of a grog-shop. The ed. He was indeed enlightened in abjuration of this last mentioned makregard to his duties, and therefore in ing some noise in the village, Auregard to his culpability, and the de- guste wished to talk with him, in order plorable situation of his soul in the sight to know something about it. Gérard of God. He was so tormented and related to him his history, and read affected by this view, that he became a with him some portions of the Bible. burden to himself, and was brought to He was all at once convinced of the the very gates of despair, so far that he truth, and he thought of nothing thencehad many times the culpable design of forth but of ridding himself of his shop, committing suicide. But the Lord, although that was the means of his subwho conducted him by a way which he sistence. Having been a widower for knew not, did not suffer him to go to some years, and having children quite such an extreme. That good God, who grown up, he thought they might well is rich in grace, and abundant in means, find means of subsistence in some other threw in his way, as he was returning way, than in selling drink. But when from Cambrais, a Christian woman, who he made the proposition to them, they spoke to him of the love of Christ, and were very mach displeased with it; and of the perfect salvation which he pur- he had to suffer much from them. Yet chased for us by his life, and his meri- he did not permit himself to be discourtorious death. Gérard was extremely aged by all these difficulties: he abanastonished to hear a woman talk to him doned his occupation of dram-selling. so admirably about the gospel; but he He went at first to labor with one of his was not on that account the more tran- relatives, but this latter being informed quil. He returned to his house wholly of his change of religion, was unwilling occupied with the things which he had longer to furnish him with employment. heard. This woman, who had inquired Thus, he was exposed to new vexaout the dwelling of Gérard, related his tions, persecuted and despised for sevehistory to Mr. Valentine Poulain, who ral months. But at present the Lord was then laboring in the gospel, and has placed him in a family where he is engaged him to visit him. Mr. Pou-appreciated, and where he is very well lain went to see him, and explained to him more fully the doctrine of salvation by faith in Christ. He appeared to comprehend well enough what Mr. Poulain explained to him, but he could not yet apply the promises to himself; he therefore had yet no peace. One day, as he went to his business, in a village two leagues from his house, being alone on the way he was again assailed by fear and remorse; in his extremity he wept, he cried, and prayed -and on a sudden the burden which weighed on his heart was removed; and be could believe that his sins were expiated by the blood of Christ, and that God had forgiven him them, for the sake of that dear Savior, who died for our offences, and rose again for our justification. He wept again, but it was for joy and gratitude. From that time he openly abjured catholicism, and consecrated himself to his Savior. His wife is also a dear sister, who will not off. The fifth, named Pierre Crinon, about 40 years old, was a Roman Catholic up to 1831. He first embraced a nominal protestantism, in which he lived for two years. At the end of this time, he became acquainted with a br. of Walincourt, who is a member of our church. This br. observed to Crinon, that he was in no safer condition since he became a protestant, than while he remained a catholic. This he comprehended without difficulty; and although this br. appeared to him too rigid and exclusive, he could not avoid loving him, and frequently secking his society. The Lord had pity on him, and it is now more than three years since he was converted to God. He is a dear brother, full of zeal and ardor, entirely disposed to do the will of God, as soon as it is pointed out to him from the sacred word. Thus, as soon as he understood that he had not been baptized into a church-meeting. Afterward heard the experience of two individuals, and they were received as candidates for baptism. Repaired to the river side and baptized them in the name of the Holy Trinity. The season was interesting and solemn. 2. By appointment several brethren and sisters met for conversation and prayer, and the Lord granted his rich blessing. It was an impressive interview. All present unanimously resolved to live nearer to God, and be more faithful in duty the year we have just commenced than we did the past year. While we renewedly gave ourselves to the Lord, I trust we felt the spirit of dependence. Dear Savior, suffer us never to lose sight of our obligations to live for the honor of thy name. according to the command of God, he | could no longer delay to put that command in practice. He resides at Esne. After having been thus sufficiently convinced, that these five brethren had a right to baptism, we repaired to the chapel, where I preached from Matt. iii. 15. I concluded by an exhortation which I addressed to the five candidates, relative to the solemn profession which they were about to make in bap- | tism. I then baptized them, and while one retired and another came, I had some verses of a hymn sung. The ceremony was solemn, and produced impressions both on the spectators and on the candidates, which I hope will be durable. Afternoon we broke the bread of the Lord, and I declared solemnly before all, that our brethren, Jauquais, Lefebvre, Gérard, Latour, and Crinon, 3. The assembly at worship to-day were received members of the church. was small. The attention was good, This day was for us a day of holy rejoic-but there was not that solemnity which ing in the Lord. To God only wise, Fa- it has been our happiness to witness at ther, Son, and Holy Spirit, be given the other seasons. praise and the glory in time and in eternity. Amen. Western Creeks. EXTRACTS FROM MR. ROLLIN'S 30. To-day several of the brethren met according to appointment,—and related, one after another, the exercises of their souls. They are evidently fighting the good fight of faith. The season was deeply interesting and proJOURNAL.fitable to my own soul. (Continued from p. 94.) Dec. 13. But few present at worship to-day; but those present were generally attentive to hear. 31. But few of the church met for worship to-day, but all present could say, "It is good for us to be here." Feb. 7. Lord's-day. Unexpectedly we were favored with a warm, pleasant 15. This day, visited several mem- day, and our place of worship was nearbers of the church. Enjoyed somely filled with attentive hearers, owing freedom in conversing on heavenly in part to the late emigration. Was things, and the duties of Christians pleased to learn that there were some while here below. Some discourage- Baptists with letters, among the attendments that appeared to my own mind ants, and that it would be their privithis morning, have by the blessing of lege to unite with us. God been removed. Arise, O Sun of righteousness, arise; dispel the moral darkness of this heathen land. 20. A good number attended worship to-day. Br. Curtiss preached to an attentive assembly. 25. Had public worship. some good was done. Trust 26. Had public worship in the morning, and church meeting in the afternoon. Heard an Indian tell his Christian experience. He was approved by the church, and baptized the 27th, Lord's-day. A large number were present at worship, and at the water side. Solemnity seemed to pervade the minds of all. 21. This day our place of worship was nearly filled with attentive hearers. Deep feeling was manifested by some. 27. To-day a goodly number of brethren and sisters collected together according to appointment. Four Africans of the late emigration presented letters from the Baptist church in Concord, Russell County, Alabama, and were cordially received. Two other Africans related the exercises of the. minds, and requested baptism, bu was thought most advisable for them to wait. 28. Considering the inc.emency of the weather, a large number attended worship. Tears bedewed some tawny Jan. 1, 1836. By request the breth-cheeks. ren asembled, and resolved themselves March 6. A large number attended Sault de Ste. Marie. Aug. 24, 1835. Had a serious and interesting interview with Wazawadonk and some other Indians; received encouragement from them that they will hereafter keep the Sabbath, and listen more attentively to the gospel. 27. This evening had a very interesting time with the girls of our family, who came into my study for inquiry and instruction. Found some of them more thoughtful than usual. 28. Had another interview of equal interest with the boys. Some of them were deeply affected. 31. This evening, had another meeting with the boys and girls together. The appearance of some of them is encouraging. They have generally been more attentive than before. May God have mercy on them, and bring them to a saving knowledge of the truth. Sept. 29. Our two young brethren, Kish-kid-je-wun, and Ah-kuh-do being present, had a conference, in which Lydia Shegud related the dealings of God with her, from which we are led to hope that she has become a new creature. Oct. 18. Lord's day. Lydia Shegud was examined at the close of the Indian meeting, and approved. 25. At the close of morning service, Lydia was baptized. Nov. 24. This evening our native brother Shegud, opened to us his mind more fully than ever before, relative to engaging in missionary work. He said from the time he professed religion he had felt a desire to be engaged in the work, but his want of a knowledge of the Book, had always appeared as an objection in his own mind, and had prevented him from opening his mind to us, and expressing his feelings on the subject. He considered the dark state of the Indians, and pitied them, but he had a considerable family, that required a support. If the Board knew him, and his circumstances, and then wished to employ him, it would be his pleasure to engage in the service. These remarks were prefaced by say ing that I was well acquainted with him, and with his manner of life since he professed religion. Dec. 28. This evening br. Alexis Cadotte came and opened his mind to us, relative to engaging as a missionary assistant. He expressed a deep sense of his unpreparedness for the work, and yet a hearty desire to engage in it, apparently arising from a love of the souls of his countrymen, and a desire to glorify God. It was finally resolved, that it seemed most expedient that he and br. Shegud should travel together with br. Cameron, the present winter, which might prove a profitable school to them, and serve to prepare them the better for future labors. 31. Commenced a protracted season of worship with the Indians, to finish the closing year and commence the new one. As the Indians had. been invited by Mr. McMurray to call upon him this morning, we postponed our introductory service until the afternoon, but had a prayer meeting last evening, and others this morning at half past six and nine. At 2 o'clock br. Cameron delivered an introductory discourse from Heb. 7. 25. Had a pretty full and attentive assembly. Jan. 1, 1836. At 11 o'clock the Indians, having visited around according to custom, assembled again for worship, and were addressed by myself from Matt. 28. 19, first clause. The Methodist brethren attended with us, and br. Jacobs interpreted. The assembly was very full and quite attentive. Nearly 200 dined with us. In the afternoon, br. Jacobs preached from Gen. 45, 28. 2. Br. Cameron preached from James 2. 26. In the afternoon I gave the closing discourse from Heb. 2. 1.Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. Several addresses and exhortations were delivered, in addition to the sermons, and good attention to them all. Also several prayer meetings were held during the meeting, and many fervent prayers offered. In the evening held our covenant meeting, and had the satisfaction of learning from our native members, that they had enjoyed the protracted meeting much, and while they sat under the ministry of the word, they had found it sweet to their taste, and felt that they had grown thereby. 6. This morning br. Cameron and |