Page:History of Oregon Literature.djvu/85

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
WRITINGS OF THE MISSIONARIES
65

influence with the Board to cause them to send out some as soon as possible. Tell the Missionary Soc. of H. (artford) M. (iddletown) New Haven not to be discouraged in their labour of love, for they will reap in due time if they faint not. Could they see what we have seen, did they know what we know of the wretchedness and misery of their Red Brethren they would count it all joy, that they were able and willing to do something to alleviate such suffering, and prepare these poor Indians for the enjoyment of life here, but more especially, for the enjoyment of the life which is to come.

My love to all the Brethren of the University with fervant prayers for their welfare.

I send this by the H. B. Com's, express which is the most regular and safe means of conveyance. You will please to direct (your letters) to Fort Vancouver to Care of James Keith Esq. Hon. H. B . Com. Lachine L. (ower) C (anada) Letters should be there (at Lachine) the first of April. I desire very much to hear from you. My love to Sister Fisk and Daughter. And except (accept) for yourself my best wishes for your prosperity and success in your arduous and important work of moulding the minds of youth, and believe me ever

Affectionately Yours

J. Lee.


2

The Methodist Mission on the Willamette in 1835

By Reverend Samuel Parker

Reverend Samuel Parker arrived in Oregon in 1835. He was sent out by the American Board to see whether missions ought to be established among the Indians. According to Gray, he "was inclined to self-applause, requiring his full share of ministerial approbation or respect." And he was "rather fastidious," so much so that he "could not

put up with the off-hand, careless, and, as he thought, slovenly manner in which Dr. Whitman was inclined to travel." If he liked deference as well as his contemporaries said he did, his spirit must have been greatly smoothed by the way the Indians treated him. The Nez Perces, who had uttered the Macedonian Cry but whom Jason Lee had passed up, welcomed him to such a degree that "no white man