November 24, 1819 – The subject of studies for the voyage was discussed this evening. We feel the importance of attending not only to the studies of our different professions, but of making the auhy-hean Language a prima object tho’ our means of acquiring it is limited.
Lat. 33. 1. Lon. 30. 52. (Thaddeus Journal)
Nov. 24th. This day have found my comforts many. Awoke with calmness and peace on my mind—at the usual hour attended upon the class, then had a lesson in singing with Mr. B—, after which I read to him for two hours in the Memoirs of Dr. Buchanan, which opened a field for remarks and conversation, interesting in their nature, but particularly so from our present situation, destined as he was, to a distant land with the hope of doing something in ‘”our Master’s vineyard. Tender were the feelings excited in our breasts at the relation of the severe trials that good man was called to endure in the separation from his beloved wife while she returned, for her health, to her native land, leaving behind her their dear little Augusta, six months old; and the still greater trial, which must have rent his heart, in the intelligence which announced her death;—her watery grave while on her second voyage. No less animating than tender in the account he gives in some letters to his friends of her peaceful and happy death. I trust the perusal will not be without its effects. While it leads me to say, “Lord, teach me how to die,—And in that hour, 0 let my fainting head,—Divine Redeemer, rest upon thy hand— And find support,” it also leads me to say, teach me to resign to thee, the dearest earthly joy that thou hast given me—to hear, with calm resignation, the summons for him to come to thee. (Sybil Bingham)
Nov 24. It would have greatly increased our happiness this evening, could you have been present to participate in our enjoyment. It is extremely pleasant being very calm and serene and rendered much more so by the bright effulgence of the moon. We have been walking on deck and singing. I think I never spent an evening more agreeable on land. It is a source of much consolation, to see our little family enjoying comfortable health. Brother R is much better than when I last wrote. You can hardly conceive of the peculiar sensations excited by bad weather and excessive rocking of the vessel. I however has not so much afflict upon me, as upon many of the family. (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)
Nov.24. The brethren met according to agreement, and chose brother Bingham Chairman. The subject of Studies, to be pursued by the Missionaries during the voyage, was discussed. Conversation was also had respecting the administration of the Sacrament, but no vote was taken. (Minutes of the Prudential Meetings of the Mission Family)
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