so long and
zealously preparing himself. He, doubtless, had his intimation from on
high, that his translation to the realms of bliss was no remote
consequence of his undertaking the mission he had accepted; and he had
familiarised his mind to it as a daily duty, and by his constant
references had sought to prepare me for the catastrophe he knew to be
inevitable."

Here Mrs Reichardt became so sensibly affected, that it was some time
before she could proceed with her narrative. She, however, did so at
last; yet I could see by the tears that traced each other down her wan
cheeks, how much her soul was moved by the terrible details into which
she was obliged to enter.

"In the midst of our success," she presently resumed, "when we had
established a congregation, had baptised hundreds of men, women, and
children; had completed a regular place of worship and an extensive
school-house, both of which were fully and regularly attended, some
European vessel paid us a short visit, soon after which, that dreadful
scourge the small-pox broke out amongst the people. Both children and
adults were seized and as soon as one died, a dozen were attacked.

"Soon the greatest alarm pervaded the natives my husband was implored to
stop the pestilence, which power they felt convinced he had in his
hands. He did all that was possible for him to do, but that
unfortunately was very little. His recommendation of remedial measures
was rarely attended with the desired results. Death was very busy. The
people died in scores, and the survivors, excited by the vindictive men
who had formerly sought his death for disparaging their gods began not
only to fall off rapidly in their regard and reverence for my husband;
but murmurs first, and execrations afterwards, and violent menaces
subsequently, attended him whenever he appeared.

"He preached to them resignation to the Divine will; but resignation was
not a savage virtue. He was indefatigable in his attentions to the
sick; but those of whom he was most careful seemed the speediest to die.
The popular feeling against him increased every hour; he appeared,
however, to defy his fate--walking unconcernedly amongst crowds of
infuriated savages brandishing heavy clubs, and threatening him with the
points of their sharp spears; but his eye never blinked, and his cheek
never blanched, and he walked on his way inwardly praising God, careless
of the evil passions that raged around him.

"It was on