SW_JC1797_Page_06

sun to rise beyond the top of the eastern hills, and set below the brow of the western mountains,—that hath clothed the wilderness with leaves in the spring, and disrobed it again, in the fall.—it is He alone who hath set bounds to our country. This speech so surprised the auditory, though men of great abilities, that they knew not what reply or answer to make. 5th. Favoured with health, though my companion, H. Simmons, jun. labours under the affliction of the ague. John Tuhi and George Crosby came to see us. These men are of another tribe, and appear superior in respect to sobriety and understanding, to many of us, who are of a fairer complexion. Their remarks on divers matters were edifying. Speaking of a schoolmaster's qualifications, one of them observed that the sort of master they wanted, or required amongst them was, not only one who was qualified to teach children, and keep the school in order, but one who would be an example to their parents. These men offered us their horses to ride to their nation, and they would go on foot, being about seventeen computed miles, through a country almost impassible at this season: but I could not accede to their kind proposal. Had a meeting this morning. A number of Indians came to see us, notwithstanding it was very stormy. I thought this a day of refreshment, both in our little sitting, and in some remarks made by the natives. 6th. A cold morning;—the wind north-east, and the waters high in the creeks, from the thaw of snow that had occurred. We intended to set out for Stock- bridge on foot, but as my companion was much re- duced by having the ague, together with some bag- gage we had to take, it seemed a little difficult. But