December 2, 1819 -Today we have endeavored to observe with our friends in N.E, a Public Thanksgiving for divine mercies. Tho’ our friends who doubtless remember us today, may have a greater exuberance and variety to crown their board, yet they can not have more multiplied and undeserved mercies to expand their hearts.
Tropic of Cancer (Thaddeus Journal)
Dec. 2nd. Precious have been the mercies of our GOD to us this day. Here, upon these wide waters, have we been permitted, with dearly beloved, absent friends, to lift up our hearts and voices in praise to our gracious Preserver and Benefactor. We felt, that in common with them, we had abundant cause for observing a day of thanks-giving, we also felt, that morning, special, mercies demanded our particular notice. Providentially, we had with us the Gov. proclamation, published the week we left Boston. Mr. B—read this, taking it on the ground for remarks, besides bringing into view our particular mercies as a Mission family, and as individuals. The sea was boisterous, and not allowing us to be on deck, we assembled in the cabin. We had a comfortable dinner provided, at which, tho but little was said, yet the subjects were tender and calculated to touch our better feelings, Lord, forgive our sins and accept our poor attempts to praise thee. Find, upon a review of past years, this to be the eighth anniversary thanks-giving which has found me in a situation new, and foreign from any calculations I could have made from one to the other. So literally have I been a stranger, a sojourner; 0, that I knew I was spiritually I Lord, I thank thee I have any evidence I am such. My soul would seek of thee daily communications of thy Grace, that so thin evidence may be encreased. I would fain hope the various and, in many instances, mysterious providences of GOD towards me, the past years, have been preparing me for what he seems calling me to. 0, to give myself wholly to my Divine Master’s service, in heart and in life! (Sybil Bingham)
2nd. Religions exercises in the cabin in consequence of the roughness of the sea, which rendered it inexpedient to be on deck. At 3 o’clock surrounded the table and partook of a frugal repast, consisting of fresh pork, sea pye, crackers and cheese. Various circumstances combined to render the season interesting. Brother T. remarked “Thanks for the gospel enjoyed by our countrymen, and promised to the heathen”. A sister observed, while our friends rejoice on the present occasion, they also weep in secret on account of the vacancies occasioned by our absence. May we not comfort ourselves with the reflection that as we are frequently on the minds of. our friends, many fervent prayers are offered up in our behalf. We now sail at the rate of 6 knots an hour, crossed the tropical line about 4 this afternoon, bidding the northern temperate zone adieu; probably for the last time. (Samuel & Nancy Ruggles)
Dec. 2. This day we celebrate a joyful anniversary. Though separated from you, and our dear American friends; I trust we cherish a fond remembrance of each other. While sitting around the festive board and partaking of the bounties of providence, you doubtless have frequently thought of me, and I hope as often lifted up your hearts to God in my behalf. My thoughts have this day dwelt much upon my beloved Country and friends, but not with any desire to return. As much as I love, think of, and desire to see you, I am unwilling to leave the great work in which I have engaged, to visit you. (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)
2. This day we celebrate as the anniversary thanksgiving. Many Christians rejoice & keep it with a merry heart; the joy of others is mingled with sorrow. That fraternal board where I have been wont to sit, has now an empty seat. Me thinks I see the trickling tear at the mention of Samuel’s name. Yet thanks are given that a friend, a brother, a child has gone to teach benighted heathen to joining in praise & thanksgiving. This date too we have left the northern temperate zone never again to visit its friendly clime. (Samuel Whitney Journal)
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