A brief narrative of the success which the Gospel hath had, among the Indians, of Martha's-Vineyard (and the places adjacent) in New-England. With some remarkable curiosities, concerning the numbers, the customes, and the present circumstances of the Indians on that island. Further explaning [sic] and confirming the account given of those matters, by Mr. Cotton Mather in the Life of the renowned Mr. John Eliot. / By Matthew Mayhew. ; Whereto is added, an account concerning the present state of Christianity among the Indians, in other parts of New-England: expressed in the letters of several worthy persons, best acquainted therewithall.

A brief narrative of the success which the Gospel hath had, among the Indians, of Martha's-Vineyard (and the places adjacent) in New-England. With some remarkable curiosities, concerning the numbers, the customes, and the present circumstances of the Indians on that island. Further explaning [sic] and confirming the account given of those matters, by Mr. Cotton Mather in the Life of the renowned Mr. John Eliot. / By Matthew Mayhew. ; Whereto is added, an account concerning the present state of Christianity among the Indians, in other parts of New-England: expressed in the letters of several worthy persons, best acquainted therewithall.

A brief narrative of the success which the Gospel hath had, among the Indians, of Martha's-Vineyard (and the places adjacent) in New-England. With some remarkable curiosities, concerning the numbers, the customes, and the present circumstances of the Indians on that island. Further explaning [sic] and confirming the account given of those matters, by Mr. Cotton Mather in the Life of the renowned Mr. John Eliot. / By Matthew Mayhew. ; Whereto is added, an account concerning the present state of Christianity among the Indians, in other parts of New-England: expressed in the letters of several worthy persons, best acquainted therewithall.

Table of contents

Title page

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Of the Indians Inhabiting in New-England, and Adjacent Provinces.

Of the Conversion of the Indians, inhabiting certain Islands near adjoyning to the Continent of NewEngland; and the Propagation of the Gospel by some sent, to the Maineland from thence.

Of the Indians Government when Christian.

CONCLUSION.

Postscript.

A Further Account, concerning the present State of Christianity among the INDIANS in other parts of New-England.

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A Brief NARRATIVE OF The Success which the Gospel hath had, among the INDIANS, OF Martha's-Vineyard (and the Places Adjacent) in NEW-ENGLAND.

With Some Remarkable Curiosities, concerning the Numbers, the Customes, and the present Circumstance of the INDIANS on that Island.

Further Explaining and Confirming the Account given of those matters, by Mr. Cotton Mather in the life of the Renowned Mr. John Eliot.

By MATTHEW MAYHEW.

Whereto is added, An Account concerning the Present State of CHRISTIANITY among the Indians, in other Parts of New-England: Expressed in the Letters of several Worthy Persons, best Acquainted therewithall.

Boston in N. E Printed by Bartholomew Green, Sold by Michael Perry, under the Exchange, 1694.

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TO HIS EXCELLENCY Sir. William Phipps Knight. Captain General and Governour in Chief of the Province of the Massachufett-Bay, in New-England.

TO THE HONOURABLE William Stoughton Esq. Lieutenant Governour. TO Major GENERAL, Wait Winthrop Esq.

To the Reverend, Increase Mather, Praesident of Harvard Colledge. AND To the Reverend, Charles Morton, Pastor of the Church in Charlestown.

SHOULD I not make Honourable mention of Your Names, for Your continual Care of, and Inspection into, the Great Work of Civilizing the Indians, and Promoting the Work for their Conversion: and the hope of future incouraging the Preaching of the Gospel, to such who as yet are [Page] [...] God of Israel; I should be [...]. I have in the [...] to the World a True Narra [...] [...], of the Beginning. Progress [...] State of the Indians on Martha's [...] and [...] Adjacent, and Places on the Mainland to them rela [...]ing, respecting their Conversion. That I have not spoken of other parts of New England, may be justly Excused; since I have Written little more than what is of my own knowledge: of other places I must have presumed from report. Of the Calumnies cast on the Indian Professors, I have in the discourse presented to Your view, (as in other things) spoken briefly, which I hope will be some Satisfaction to You. I shall only desire of You, that incouragement might be given to some English, or Indian, Spirited for such Service (humbly conceiving an Indian most probably like to effect the same) to visit the Indians, bordering on New England; who might carry to them the glad Tydings of the Gospel; but since I may not doubt Your Prudence, in this as in other Your weighty Affaires; I shall not add to this, but Subscribe

Your EXCELLENCIES, And Your HONOURS, Most Humble Servant, MATTHEW MATHEW.

Martha's Vineyard, June 18, 1694

Of the Indians Inhabiting in New-England, and Adjacent Provinces.

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TO speak more of the Original of this People, than that they are descended from the Loines of their great Grandfather Adam, however divers worthy men, have their divers Sentiments; I shall not pretend; but that they are Originally of one Language is most evident: Language. nor is the admired knowledge of those Ancients so admirable, for their ready speaking more than Twenty Languages which may rationally be supposed to have been, but one Originally; though suffering some change, by ocasional accidents: we know, the divers pronouncing of the same words, without difference in Dialect, may render the speaker hardly intelligible, to him that writes alike with him; nor do I think the speech of these Americans so divers, but that an Indian who is [Page] [...] with his own, [...]ay by [...] supposed of a [...] and [...] Express himself in very few [...] to be well understood by Forty [...] Nations; who by reason of Wars, the [...] of [...] and Commerce, and the advantage, other Nations here [...]ad by Literature; [...] severally suffered much alteration of that Language, [...] first indifferently spoken by all, [...] yet is not more, differing, than the present Language of the English, from their speech not many hundred years since; which although it would not readily be understood, by a present [...], if he should speak with his great Grand-father, who than lived, yet hath not [...]o altered, but no long Converse, might render them mutually intelligible. Of words not unlike in the Indian Tongue hardly intelligible without customary discourse of Nation with Nation, I might instance in above an hundred; such as Nuppaw, Duppaw, Ruppaw, the Sun, [...] Abtooque &c. a Deer, [...] Wirrit, Good, and the like, Pum, Pum me, Pim, Oyl or Fat, these and the like, were doubtless the same words, little altered; beside which, the alone difference in Pronouncing the same word, might seem a great difference in the Speech or Language; for Example, Wirrit pronounced short, sounds Writ, and might be not less readily understood, by differently accenting the same word; to which I might add, words, as such, [Page] Expressing the mind of the speaker, being [...] of other words, suitable for such Compo [...]tion, yet as such might be called now, or distinct from a speech in former use▪ of which words, near the one half of this Peoples Language is. I have been the larger concerning their Language, that such English whose [...] may incline to so good and great a work, may be incouraged, to go among those who [...] have hardly heard the Name of the LORD, named among them.

Their Government was purely Monarchical [...] and as for such whose dominions extended further than would well admit the Princes personal guidance, it was committed into the hands of Lieutenants, [...] who Governed with no less absoluteness, than the Prince himself: notwithstanding in matters of difficulty, the Prince Consulted with his Nobles, and such whom he esteemed for Wisdom; in which it was admirable to see the Majestick deportment of the Prince, his Speech to his Council, with the most deliberate discussion of any matter proposed for their advice; after which what was by him resolved, without the least hesitation was applauded, and with at lest a seeming Alacrity attended.

The Crown (if I may so term it) alwayes descended to the Eldest Son (though Subject to [Page] usurpation) not to the Female, unless in defect of a Male of the Blood; the Blood Royal, [...] being in such Veneration among this People, that if a Prince had issue by divers Wives, such Succeeded as Heir who was Royally descended, by the Mother, although the Youngest, esteeming his issue by a Venter of less quallity than a Princess, not otherwise than Sachims or Noblemen.

Their Nobles were either such who descended from the Blood Royal, or such on whom the Prince bestowed part of his dominions with the Royalties, Nobles. or such whose descent was from Ancestors, who had time out of mind been Esteemed such.

Their Yeomen were such who having no stamp of Gentility, were yet esteemed as having a natural right of living within their Princes dominion, [...] and a Common use of the Land, and were distinguished by two Names or Titles, the one signifying Subjection, the other, Tiller of the Land.

Although this People retained nothing of Record, nor use of Letters, Villians. yet there lived among them many Families, [Page] who although the time of their Forefathers first inhabiting among them, was beyond the Momory of man, yet were known to [...] strangers or For [...]igners, who were not Priv [...]ledged with Common Right, but in [...] measure Subject to the Yeo [...]anry, no [...] were not dignified, in attending the Prince, in Hunting or like Exercise; unless called by particular favour.

The Princes, as they had not other Revenue, than the Presents of their Subjects (which yet was counted, Due debt) Wrecks of the Sea, Reven [...]; with the Skin's of Beasts killed in their dominion, and many like things, as First Fruits, &c. so they wanted none; For in case of War, both People and Estate was wholly at their dispose; therefore none demanded nor Expected Pay. If we respect their Court, it was doubtless maintained in great Magnificence, in distinction from the Subject, which is the utmost can be obtained by the greatest Monarch; their Families, and attendants being well Cloathed, with Skins of Moos, Bear, Deer, Beaver, and the like: The Provisions for their Tables, as Flesh, Fish, Ro [...]ts, Fruits, Berries, Corn, Beanes, in great abundance and variety, was always brought by their Neighbouring Subjects; of all which they were as void of Care, as the most Potent Princes in the Universe.

[Page] As the Prince was acknowledged, Absolute L [...]rd on the Land, so he had no less Soveraignty at Sea: for as all belonged to him, [...] on Sees. which was stranded on the Shore of his Sea-Coast, so whatever Whales or other Wreck of Value, floating on the Sea, taken up, on the Seas washing his Shores, or brought and Landed, from any part of the Sea, was no less his own.

I shall conclude this brief account of the Indians in general with what long since pasted between the late much Honoured, Mr. Thomas Mayhew, and an Indian Prince, who ruled a large part of the Maind land.

This Prince coming to Martha's Vineyard, with his usual attendants, being about Eighty Persons, well Armed, came to Mr. Maybew's House, [...] and being admitted, sat down; Mr. Mayhew entred the Room, but being acquainted with their Customes, took no notice of the Prince's being there (it being with them in point of Honour incumbent on the Inferiour to Salute the Superiour:) a considerable time being past the Prince broke Silence, and [...], Sachem (a word importing in their Language not more than, Noble, or Worshipful) Mr. Mayhew, are you well? to which having a Friendly reply; and treating of several things, and of the Island [Page] Martha's Vineyard, being Peopled with English; the Prince desiring something wherein the English were concerned, Mr. Mayhew promising to effect what he desired; immediately Subjoyned, that he must First speak with the Inhabitants: the Prince demanded why he recalled his Promise; for said he, What I Promise or Speak it alwayes true, but you English Governours, cannot be true, for you can't make your words nor intentions true; but mine are alwayes true, for I make them true; greatly disdaining the Popular Government of the English in this Country.

Having Promised an account of the Conversion of many Indians Inhabiting these parts of America, it may well be Expected I should say something of their Religion, while Heathen.

They generally acknowledged and worshipped Many gods; therefore greatly esteemed and reverenced their Priests, Powaws or Wizards, Religion who were esteemed as having immediate converse with the gods: to them therefore they addressed themselves in all difficult cases: yet could not all that desire that dignity (as they esteemed it) obtain Familiarity with the Infernal Spirits; nor were all Pawaw's alike Successfull in their addresses: but they become such either by immediate Revelation, or in the use of certain Rites and Ceremonies, Tradition had left as means conducing to that end: insomuch that Parents [Page] often out of certain Zeal dedicated their Children to the gods, and Educated them accordingly, observing certain Diet, debarring Sleep &c. yet of the many thus designed, but few obtained their desire.

Supposing that where the Practice of Witchcraft has been highly esteemed, there may be given the plainest demonstration, of Mortals having Familiarity with Infernal Spirits; I am willing to let my Reader know that not many years since, dyed here one of the Powaw's, who never pretended to Astrological knowledge, yet could precisely inform such who desire his Assistance, from whence Goods Stolen from them were taken, and whither carryed; with many, things of the like nature: nor was he ever known to indeavour the concealing, his knowledge, to be immediately from a god Subservient to him, that the English worshipped. This Powaw being by an English man, worthy of Credit (who lately informed me of the same) desired to advise him, who had Stolen certain Goods which he had lost, having formerly been an eye witness of his ability; the Powaw after a little pausing, demanded why he requested that from him, since himself served another God, that therefore he could not help him; but added, If you can believe that my god will help you, I will try what I can do; which diverted the man from further inqui [...]y. I must a little digress, and tell my Reader that this Powaws [Page] wife was accounted a Godly Woman, and lived in the practise and profession of the Christian Religion, not only by the approbation, but incouragement of her Husband; She constantly Prayed in the Family, and attended the Publick Worship on the Lords Day's: he declared that he could not blame her, for that she Served a God that was above his; but that as to himself, his gods continued kindness, obliged him not to forsake his Service.

That the Powaw's by the Infernal Spirits often killed Persons, caused Lameness and Impotency, as well as shewed their Art in performing things, beyond Humane, by Diabolick Skill, such who have conversed much among them have had no reason to question.

Their Practice was, either by desiring the Spirit to them appearing to perform, what mischief they intended; or to form a piece of Leather like an Arrow head, tying an hair thereto: or using some Bone, as of Fish (that it might be known Witchcraft, to the bewi [...]ched) over which they performed certain Ceremonies; and dismissed them to Effect their desire. Such In [...]hanted things, have most certainly, either entered the Bodies of the intended to be by them wounded; or the Devil hath formed the like, within their Flesh, without any outward breach of the Skin; which we have good reason to believe; the Powaw's acknowledging that practice; and such things having been taken out of the [Page] Flesh, of the supposed to be bewitched. Or, by their Seizing something of the Spirit (as the Devil made them think) of such they intended to Torment or kill, while it wandered, in their Sleep: this they kept being in Form of a Fly, closely imprisoned; and according as they dealt with this, so it Fared with the Body it belonged to▪

Of the Cures performed by them, on the Bewitched; I could give many instances; I shall briefly bint at two.

The one, of an Indian on Martha's Vineyard; called afterward [...], who having been some time greatly Tormented, and now wholly impotent; his Friends advise him to the Powaw's, concluding him to be Bewitched; they being met, and dancing round a great Fire, the Sick lying by; some of the Neighbours entered the House, being perswaded that a great Powaw, now called to cure, had bewitched the Sick▪ they threaten him that as he had Bewitched, unless he would Cure the Sick man, they would burn him in that fire; after many Excuses, too long here to relate, they took him up, resolving at least to a little Singe him; who no sooner felt the heat of the fire near him, but the Sick immediately recovered; This was a thing Publickly known to the English, as well as Indians, in the Neighbourhood: there can be no doubt of it.

[Page] The other I shall instance in, was a Relation from Capt. Thomas Dagget Esq. now deceased, and Richard Sarson Esq. Justices of the Peace; who being on an Island, where a Bewitched Woman lay in great Extremity and wholly impotent: the Powaw's there having without Success indeavoured the Cure; the related sent to Martha's Vineyard, for more famoused Powaw's: the said Gentlemen, were admitted to be present, on certain conditions; the Powaw's, goe to dancing; who with the Spectators, used certain Ceremonies usual in such cases; one of the Powaw's Praying to his god, with such ardent desires and fervency, that Capt. Dagget told me, had it been to the true God, it had been a Prayer Exceeding most that he had heard: the issue was, they in a Deer Skin caught the Spirit (as they said) which entered the Woman; this they said was the Spirit of an Englishman drowned in the Adjacent Sound: yet it was then supposed, the Powaw was by, which bewitched her: the issue was, she immediately recovered: the Powaw told her, unless she removed to Martha's Vineyard, she would again be Sick, for being an English Spirit be could not long confine it.

Of the Conversion of the Indians, inhabiting certain Islands near adjoyning to the Continent of NewEngland; and the Propagation of the Gospel by some sent, to the Maineland from thence.

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THE Worshipful Thomas Mayhew in the year 1641. having obtained a grant of Martha's Vineyard, Nantuket and Elizabeth Isles, to make a Settlement; his Son Mr. Thomas Mayhew in the year 1642. Settled at Martha's Vineyard, with a few other inhabitants, where his Reputation for Piety, his natural gifts, beside the acquired by his Education (having attained no small knowledge in the Latin and Greek Tongues, and being not wholly a Stranger [Page] to the Hebrew) soon Occasioned his call to the Ministry among that handful. Not long after Viz. in the year 1644. God who had Ordained him an Evangelist, for the Conversion of these Gentiles, stirred him up with an Holy Zeal and Resolution, to Assay what Success he might find in that work; he takes opportunity to insinuate, the Love and good will [...]e bor [...] to that People, and soon finds Occasion to let them know their D [...]plorable Condition, under Satan, who as he had kept them in Ignorance of those Bodily and Earthly things, which might render their Lives in this World more happy; so of those that related to their Future happiness in that to come. And whereas he could not be in hopes of being heard in a more [...], he Treats them in a more Private way; sometimes going to some particular Houses, of Persons whom he esteemed most Rational and Well qualified, other while discoursing with particular men. The first Indian imbracing the motion of forsaking their gods, and Praying to the true God, was called I a-co [...]mes; Esteemed by the Indians as a contemptible Person among themselves; unto this man, God who ordereth all things for His own Glory, gave so great a measure of Faith and Confidence in His Power, that he is soon beyond the fear of Concealing his Contempt of their gods: the Sachems and Powaw's being much inraged, threaten his Life; the Powaw's or Wizzards [Page] told him (a thing Publickly known) that he could not be ignorant, that they could kill such as displeased them, Viz. by Witchcraft: he, answers for himself before the Sachimes, Witches, and a great Assembly; acknowledges the god they Worshipped had great Power, but Limited, and was Subservient to the God he now had chosen; therefore although by their means many had suffered much, and some were killed, he despised their power, as being himself a Servant of Hun, whose Power overruled all Powers, and ordered all things: the Expecting multitude wait the event, which while they Concluded, to be Sickness or Death; the good man remaines wholly Sound to their astonishment▪ Mr. Mayhew makes use of this advantage, is unces [...]ant in his labour, and Promises, Now while they Stumbled in doubt of their own, to set them in the Right Path; he spares not his Body by Night nor Day, lodges in their Houses, propose, such things to their Consideration he thinks firstly requisite, solves all their Scruples and Objections; and tells them, they might plainly see, it was in good will, for▪ their good, from whom he Expected no reward, that he sustained so much loss of time, and [...] wet and cold. It pleased God to give such Success to these indeavours, that it was not long before he obtained Publick Audience among them, when generally, he [...] more time after Sermon in reasoning [Page] with them, than in Sermon, whereby I must tell my Reader, it came to pass, that their Religion was as well in Head as Heart. This worthy Servant of the Lord continued his painfull Labours among them untill the year, 1657. in which time, God was pleased to give such Success to his faithfull and unwearied Labour, that many hundred men and women, were added to the Church; such who might truely be said to be Holy in Conversation, and for knowledge such who needed not to be taught the first Principles of Religion; beside the many hundred of looser Professors of which, that such worthy Christians, whose godly Zeal, for Propagating the Gospel, to such who sat in Darkness and saw no Light, provoked an holy Emulation, to compass Sea and Land, by their liberal Contributions for Prosel [...]ting the Heathen, to the Service and Worship of the Lord Jesus (who yet Survive) might rejoyce, since that, God gave a Blessing to, and caused a Plentiful harvest to Succeed their Sowing in these Waters▪ and that the Successors and Children of those ever to be Honoured deceased Christians might rejoyce, that their Predecessors Religious intent, in giving freely of their Worldly Goods, to advance the Work for Salvation of Souls, was so far from deminishing [...] Estates; that they thereby [...] to their Childrens Children▪ [Page] I shall give a true Relation, of the Progress, and present State, of the undertaking, and Gods blessing following the indeavours of those he called, for Converting the Indians, on Martha's Vineyard and Adjacent Isles; by letting the World know, who, and how qualified these were who were Esteemed Christians.

When such a Number professed the Christian Religion, as gave Occasion to the Indians in general to Esteem them a Sect differing from themselves, and by the denomination of, Praying men, to Signalize that difference; and that their Number was such as to Meet Publickly to Worship God: such who forsook their Heathenish Worship and Idolatry, professing to become Christians: in the Publick Assembly declared, the grounds and reasons moving them to imbrace the one, and forsake the other way, with their Resolution to Pray, to Serve, and indeavour to Over the true God in Jesus Christ; how this Resolution was wrought in them; what Temptations had obstructed, what Reason, Scripture and Strength from God had incouraged them, and inabled them to retain such Resolution▪ how, they had often Prayed to God, and yet been overcome by discouragements, and Temptations &c. Closing all with professing a Resolution, by Gods Assistance, to Pray to, and Serve Him and Him onely; begging the Prayers of the Congregation to God in [Page] their behalf: which said, many of the Congregation took them by the hand, in token of love, and good will. If after such Publick Profession, any was observed not to perform the usual Worshipping of God, in Praying with their Families, desiring a Blessing on their Food, or the like (who yet in their Publick meeting constantly attended) they were Publickly Examined of the same: Of which let me give a remarkable instance: One who after his Admission (if I may so term it) into the Number and Society of the Praying Indians, being present at a great Assembly, after the Exercise, was by him that Preached, informed that it was reported, he had ceased to Pray, desired him, to let [...] Congregation know, what grounds and motives occasioned such neglect; the man answered, It was true, he had not lately used Publickly to Pray; yet did sometimes Pray Privately; that he did not in his judgement disapprove the Service of God, but acknowledged it to be good; but found himself weak; not able to live up to Rules of that Religion: but when God should give him more Strength, he hoped he should be again a Praying man.

Thus Mr. Mayhew continued his almost in expressible labour and vigilant care for [...] good of the Indians, whom he justly esteemed, his Joy and Crown and having seen so great [Page] a Blessing on his faithful indeavours in the making known the Name of his Lord among th [...]se Gentiles, with indefatigable pains, expecting no reward, but alone from Him, who said; Goe teach all Nations, Le I am with you: God moved the hearts of some Godly Christians in England to advance a Considerable Sum for incouraging the Propagating, and Preaching the Gospel to the Indians in New-England: and seeing the Spirit given to Sundry of the Indians, with the gift of Prophesying; according to the Pro [...]se, given by Him who Ascended and gave gifts unto men; an able Godly English man, named Peter Foulger, who was imployed in teaching the Youth in Reading, Writing, and the Principles of Religion, by Catechising; and being well Learned in the Scripture, able to assist them in what might be needfull▪ his Honoured Father, the Governour, well skilled in their Language, and highly honouring the work for their Conversion; whereby, if in his absence, any difficult matter might happen, they might find suitable Assistance: in the year 16 [...]7. he intended a Short Voyage for England; but alas, the Ship wherein he took Passage was never heard of; Thus [...] to an Immature Death, Mr. Mayhew, who was so Affectionately esteemed of by the Indians, that many years after, he was seldom [...] without Tears.

[Page] Mr. Thomas Mayhew, after the loss of his son, as aforesaid: Seeing no such [...] probably to be obtained, that might invite a Minister to imbrace the work among the Indians; and little hopes of finding any of the Spirit of his Son, or Mr. ELIOT; to bear the burthe [...] attending, and in that day of necessity to be undergone [...] without a prospect of more than could well be expected, for incouraging to so in it self-troublesome [...]mploy; and that his onely Son, had spent his Strength, and yet rejoyced in the mid'st of those many Aches, Pain's and Distempers, contracted by his often lodging in their cold houses, and induring Wet and Cold, in faith of Gods accepting of, and prospering him in that, whereunto he could see nothing could rationally move him; concludes that it was, Of God, and not of man; he therefore resolves to Visit and incourage them often; he goes once every Week to some of their Plantations; and with the Assistance of Godly Indians who taught and instructed their Neighbours, on the Lords Day's perswaded the Indians of the Gay head, who many years, were obstinately resolved not to admit the Glad-Tidings of the Gospel among them (being animated by the Sachims of the Continent) now to imbrace it; so that now the Indians on the Islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantuket, might justly bear [Page] the denomination of Christian: the number of Adult Persons on both Islands, being about three thousand; of which I have taken the more particular care to make an Exact Computation, that I might Vindicate Mr. Cotton Mather, from the Imputation of overreckoning, when in the Life of Mr. Eliot, he reckons the number supposed on Martba's Vineyard professing the Christian Religion to be Sixteen hundred.

The Indians being thus brought over to the acknowledgment and profession of the Christian Religion; and many of them desiring to joyn in such Communion, whereby they might injoy the presence of God in all His Ordinances; Mr. Mayhew and Mr. John Cotton (now Pastor of the Church of New-Plymouth) who having been sometime Preacher to the English, had attained, some knowledge in the Indian Tongue, and Preached unto them two years; being well Satisfied with their suitable qualifications, after mature Consideration and advice, concluded to give their help and Assistance thereto; which was happily accomplished, to the good Satisfaction of the English Church, and Godly Professors of the Island, who by advantage of many years acquaintance with them, had great Experience of their qualifications. An Indian Church Confederated, at Martha's Vineyard. Aug. 22. 1670.

[Page] Mr. Mayhew by Mr. Cotton's removing from the Island, was left alone as to any English Assistance: but Mr. John Mayhew his grandson, being called to Preach to a small People; by the urgent and ardent desires of the Indians; and being well skilled in their Language, complyed with them; and once every week Preached at some of their Plantations. His diligence was now to be [...], especially after Mr. Mayhew his [...] Death, in the year 1681. by reason [...] certain Heterodox oppin [...], likely to take [...] them; and being a man of great [...] parts, he used to desire such who had [...] any of those Principles, to produce their Reasons; as likewise any that desired to be resolved in any matter, to give him ad [...]antage to resolve them in Publick; that others might receive Satisfaction and Instruction; whereby I believe and know, that they received more Conviction, Instruction and Satisfaction, than in the ordinary way of Preaching; which alwayes notwithstanding preceeded that: insomuch that none, of those Erroneous Oppimons spread to the disturbance, or unsettlement of the Church, nor general [...]ity of professors among them: but having finished what God in His all wise Providence, saw good to improve him in; he deceased in the year 1688. leaving the Indians (if I might [Page] now so term them) in an orderly way of Religiously Congregating, in their several Assemblies on the Lords Day, and hearing their several Teachers, who usually began with Prayer, Sang part of a Psalm, then from some Portion of Scripture spake for the Conversion and Edification of his hearers: as also a Church which then or soon after consisted of at least One hundred Communicants, being according to the most strict Order of the Congregational Way: Which leads me to say something of the Discipline used among them.

The Church then are a Selected Company of Professing Believers, in Covenant according to the Congregational Practice, having Officers accordingly; and keeping up the Exercise of a severe Discipline, by Publick Admonition in case of the disorderly walking of any member of their Society; and if after the Reproof and Admonition of the Church, any proceed in their evil Courses, such are proceeded with by Excommunication.

I would than willingly know of those Detructors who either Publickly or more privately, have indeavoured to Scan [...]lalize [...]o great a work [...] what kind of People they expect to see a Church consist of? or when it will come to pass that some shall not be retained in Churches (who yet may be deemed [Page] an Holy People) whose Conversation may be grievous to the Church, though the Church can find no Expedient for their Excommunication? I know that many who are in no measure qualified for Church Fellowship; think it no small disparagement to themselves, that Indians should be accounted worthy of what themselves cannot be admitted to: how it is in other places I know not, but here some, whose religious pretences have gained Credit abroad, and have not Scrupled to Stigmatize the Indians with greatest opprobry, in particular cases of their complaint, the Indians have been found wholly innocent, and themselves sordidly Vilanous: but when shall it be that the Seed of the Serpent shall cease to hiss at, and open their Mouthes against the Seed of the Woman? which yet I could demonstrate, hath in several cases which have occurr'd here, against the Indians, broken the Serpents head▪ in his Children, and if it were possible filled them with Shame and Confusion: [...] however, the Sober Religious People here, have done, and doe, esteem them as Christians indeed; and although the building be not all of Living Stones, yet as it is an House, is so far esteemed an House of God: Insomuch that I have heard some Godly English, their Neighbours, Members of Churches; profess they were troubled, that their unacquaintedness [Page] in their Language was such, that they could not well (but otherwise would gladly) partake with them, in the Ordinance of the Lords Supper.

I must acknowledge, that as the Number of the Indians are greatly decreased, so especially of the Godly and Religious; it being a thing so obvious, that in the year 1690. of the Indians of Martha's Vineyard alone; of the number of more than one hundred Adult Persons that dyed, not less than three fourths, were of the Sober Religious Professors; that it was by the English Inhabitants vulgarly taken notice of: the which notwithstanding, in the year 1692. of the before mentioned Church, were remaining more than one hundred; without mentioning those many Confessors, before mentioned, whose Publick Declarations of their several Convictions, Temptations, and Resolutions to indeavour to Serve the true God, would have drawn Tears from the eyes of any who had but in the Serious retirements of Consideration acknowledged a Deity.

I must not conclude before I tell the Reader, that as in the Ap [...]stolick times, the Church sent forth from among themselves, for the Conversion of the Nations, so these Indians on Martha's Vineyard did; not only to the Island of Nantucket, being about 1500. Adult Persons; [Page] but likewise to the Maine-land. Of those of Nantuket I shall subjoyn a Letter, from the Worshipfull John Gardner, who is well acquainted with them, having divers years Assisted them in their Government, by instructing them in the Laws of England, and de [...]ding difficult cases among them.

Worshipfull SIR

I have Received Yours of April the 8th. 94 with your desire to be informed of the present State of our Indians, as to their Number, Worship and Government; an Answer to your desires, take briefly: Their Decay is Great, Chiefly in Number, there being now but about Five hundred Grown Persons: As to their Worship, there is Three Societies or Churches: Two Congregational; One of the Baptists, but their Number is small; but their is Live Constant Assemblies or Meetings; Two amongst them that went by the Name of the Antepeatames or Powatoms; and that I may now say, there is not known a POWAW amongst them: and although it is true, there is a great [...] in Religion among the first Societies, many of their best men, and I may [...] Good men are Dead: Yet amongst[Page]the now Praying Indians, there is an Increase; God Raising us some, yea even of Themselves, Preachers and Serious men too, some of them; which is cause of Thankfulness: but that there is a decay with many [...] to be Lamented; the cause I take to be their not preserving the Truth in the Love of it; their Love to Drink: their being more mindfull of Form than Substance; which puts me upon endeavour to make them sensible, That it as neither Circumcision no [...] Uncircumcision [...] any thing, but the Keeping the Commandments of God; Faith that works by Love, the New Creature, and things of that Nature. As to their Government, They are wholly under Their Majesties, or the English Government; the method is, they have Three distinct or Town-Courts, with Power to bear and determine to Forty Shillings: the Magistrates they chuse themselves yearly; and when Chosen and Approved of, they have Commissions with liberty of Appeal to the English, which they make much use of: Greater matters come to the English. This in short is the Truth of their Present State.

I am Your Real Friend and Servant, John Gat

Nantu [...]et MAY, 17th. 1694.

[Page] Here we must take notice of Gods giving Success to the Ministry of the Indians; and acknowledge, that although there have been some decay, yet on that Island, there is not onely a Form, but in some measure the Power of Godliness.

So likewise on the Maine land; by the alone Ministry of the Martha's Vineyard Indians, was the Civilizing and Conversion of the Indians on the Ma [...]ne land, at a place called Succonet, and parts Adjacent: who as they were Converted by the Ministry, sent from the Church of Martha's Vineyard, so the Officers were by them (as likewise were those of Nantuket) Ordained by laying on the hands of their Prosbytery; of these although I have been no eye witness; yet I have received account, from even such who bare no great respect to Religion, that they are as beyond Comparison, Exceeding the other Indians in morall Vertue; so likewise from other Juci [...]ous Persons, their Neighbours of whom I shall name, Mr. William Vobes, a Person now representing the Freeholders o [...] those parts, in the Great and General Assembly, of the Province of the [...] Bay in New England: nor have these People as yet dependance on, not Expeatation from any other than their Mother, the [...]

Of the Indians Government when Christian.

[Page]

I have already told my Reader, that the Government of this People was the best of all Governments, Monarchy; and it has been judged not without reason, that a main obstruction in the progress of the Gospel in the American Plantations, was, if not yet is, the jealousy the Princes conceived of the Invasion of their Government through the pretences of Religion, and the Eclipsing their Monarchical Dignity.

The ever Honoured Thomas Mayhew there fore finding that the Princes on these Islands, who although they maintained their obsolute Power and [...] as Kings; were yet bound to doe certain Homage to a P [...]tent Prince on the Continent: and although they were no great People, yet had been wasted [Page] by Intestine Wars, wherein the great Princes on the Continent (not unlike European Princes for like Reasons of State) were not unassisting, whereby they were necessitated to make these Princes the ballance to decide their Controversies, and several Jurisdictions, by presents annually sent, whereby obliging the Princes to give their several Assistance as occasion required: and seeing his Son as aforesaid in a zealous indeavour for their Conversion, he judged it meet that Moses and Aaron joyn hands; he therefore prudently [...] them know, that by order from his Master the King of England, he was to Govern the English which should inhabit these Islands; that his Master was in Power far above any of the Indian Monarches; but that as he was powerfull, so was he a great lover of Justice; that therefore he would in no measure invade their Jurisdictions; but on the contrary Assist them as need required; that Religion and Government were distinct things. Thus in no long time they conceived no ill Opinion of the Christian Religion.

When afterwards the number of the Christian Indians were increased among them, he perswaded them to admit of the Counsils of the Judicious Christians among themselves, and in cases of more than ordinary consequence of [Page] a [...] for Tryal; when likewise he promised his Assistance and direction with the Prince; when notwithstanding the Princes assent was to be obtained, though he were no Christian. Thus within a few years there was a happy Government settled among them, and Records kept of all Actions and Acts passed in their several Courts, by such who having learned to Write fairly were appointed thereto. The Princes with their Sachims (or Nobles) made Publick acknowledgment of their Subjection to the King of England, being notwithstanding mindful to be understood as Subordinate Princes, to Govern according to the Laws of God and the King. Here I shall take leave to insert two remarkables.

During the late unhappy War between the English and Indians in New England, about Nineteen years since; an Evil Spirit porfessed too many of our English, whereby they suffered themselves to be unreasonably exasperated against all Indians; of such there were some on these [...], who could hardly be so moderated [...] Mr. Mayhew, and others in Government with him, [...] to be restrained from rising to [...] the di [...]ming of the Indians; for whose satisfaction Capt. Richard Sarson Esq. was ordered with a small party (the Indians being on these Islands Twenty to one, having [Page] Arms) to Treat the Indians on the West end of Martha's Vineyard, who were mostly to be doubted: he returns with the in [...]uing answer▪ that the delivering their Arms would expose them to the will of the Indians ingaged in the present War, who were not less theirs than the Enemies of the English; that they had never given occasion of the distrust Intimated; if in any thing not hazarding their safety, they could give any Satisfaction for proof of their Fidelity, they would willingly attend what should reasonably be demanded of them; but they were unwilling to deliver their Arms, unless the English would propose some mean for their safety and livelyhood: with this return they drew a Writing in their own Language, which I have often read, and would have Verbatim inserted, but cannot at present find it; the Substance was, that as they had Submitted to the Crown of England, so they resolved to Assist the English on these Islands against their Enemies, which they esteemed in the same respect equally their own, as Subjects to the same King; which was Subcribed by the Persons of greatest note among them.

Having this answer the Government resolved, and accordingly [...] them [...], furnishing them with [...], and [Page] [...] them so faithful this even some [...] related, in observance [...] general instructions given them, so soon as they landed from the Continent, were immediately brought before the Governour, to attend his pleasure▪ insomuch that the English (although the W [...], with respect to the [...] of [...], and their advantage by the [...] to the French [...] no good aspect) took [...], but [...] the whole to the [...] [...] doubting to be advertised by them of any danger from the Enemy. This was the effect of the bringing the Gospel of Peace among them, Viz. a Peace-bringing Gospel.

The other observable I shall add to show as their Loyalty, so their observance of the Laws of England.

In the time of the late Revolution, when many in hopes there was no King in Israel, expected to have done what they saw good in their own eyes: Several of our English threatning to fetch certain Sheep in possession of the Indians inhabiting a small Island Adjacent to Martha's Vineyard; which Sheep they asserted were Stolen from them, who met with repulse; the Sachim least there should happen any misunderstanding of that matter, immediately [Page] makes his report to me in these words, Viz. Several of your English have been on my Island, and would have [...] taken Sheep from [...], and we are much threatned therewith; I am doubtfull if they persist in that Resolution, it may Occasion Blood-shed: you know that while your Grand-father and my Father lived, there never happened any difference in such things, not hope will be Occasion given by me. I desire the [...] Amity may be continued, nor can the English say that we have not manifested [...] Allegiance to the King by a continued Subjection. And although it is true, we have desired your Order should come to us, rather than your Officer, which hath generally been observed; yet we are willing in Case the English pretend any thing, ours have insured them in; let an Officer by writ from Authority doe has duty; then we shall know how in an orderly way, to be relieved; yet shall the least Boy bringing your Order, as in your Grandfathers time, Command any thing: and if you see cause on any complaint about our Sheep, you may command all of them; hoping to find as [...] a decision by the Rules of Justice: we hope we [...] not see (as is too much practiced in other places) an English man, pretending an Indian to be in his debt to come to our Houses and pay himself; or in other cases beat our People; but as [...] we may have equal Justice, being the Kings Subjects; and Violence and Riot committed on our[Page]People by the English may be esteemed of the [...] nature [...] quality as ours against them; of which, with the Justl [...], we pray you would Consider, and [...] speedy care.

I shall as to their Government only add; that in their several Plantations or Town-ships, they Elect three or more to joyn with the Sachims (or Lords of the place) who hold Courts, for [...] such Controversies as happen among them the Sochim presiding in such Courts, or [...] case he decline that Office, another is Elected in his place: if either party dislike the Judgment given, he Appeals to a Superiour Court, which consists of some of the most esteemed of each place, being some of their Magistrates, where some Principal Sachims is Elected to preside for one year: and from this Court an Appeal lyes to the English Court. In giving Judgment, they observe such rules and orders made and recorded among themselves. and the English Law, the knowledge whereof they much aspire unto. They have likewise some among them, whom the less able to declare, or desend their own Cases, improve as [...]; some of which are to admiration Critical in their pleadings.

[Page] I shall close the whole when I have told the [...], that their Children are generally [...]aught to Read, and many to Write; in one of their Towns the last Winter, Viz. 1693. Thirty Children were at School, Twenty more of the same place, at the same time accidentally, being not supplyed with Books, could not attend it. Such who are too far distant from any School are often taught by some of their Neighbours; in diverse places are lesser Schools.

CONCLUSION.

May, if not a double yet a single Portion of the Spirit of an ELIOT of New England, the Mayhews of Martha's Vineyard, a Bourn of Sandwich, in the late Colony of New-Plymouth, fall on some Persons, who may, induced with an Holy Zeal for God, and the Conversion of Souls, according to their Example, Be instant in Season and out of Season, in [...]ure all things, become all, unto those miserable Creatures, that if possible they may Win some, not doing the Work of the Lord neglegently, by [...] Preaching a [...] to such as desire to hour; but by frequent visiting them, and from House to House, disputing with and convincing them, shew that it is God, and not themselves they Serve; believing there [Page] is a great and Eternal Weight of Glory attending those whom their Lord shall find So Doing: then may we hope to see a Blessing on this Land and Peace on our borders; and the Indians bordering on us, shall obey not out of Fear, but for Conscience sake. May the Indian Church send forth some from among themselves, to the more Remote Indians, with as good Success as when to the next bordering Indians. May the Royal Hearts of our Gracious KING and QUEEN, still favour so great and Glorious an undertaking: to which may the LORD our GOD, give His [...]. AMEN.

Postscript.

[Page]

HAving among many things, worthy of notice in the Precedent Discourse, omitted some Remarkables, of the Indian Converse with Infernal Spirits; I thought meet to briefly touch some things therein Remarkable: and to insert a [...] of the Decease of a Prince, memorable for his forsaking his People, for the sake of Christ, and his return with happy Success in Proselyting his Subjects, to the Worship of God in Christ. This I find Written on the outside of a Book, in the Library of Mr. John Mayhew deceased: which please to take as followeth.

Mittark, Sachim (rather Prince) of the Gaythead, on Martha's Vineyard, Deceased January. 1683.

[Page] This Princes Subjects being reso [...]ved to continue in their Heathenism, notwithstanding his imbracing the Gospel; grew so disaffected to him, that he for a time, removed to the East and of Martha's Vineyard; whither after three years [...] at the [...], he again returned, having perswaded his People into a willingness, that such who would, might attend the glad Tydings he pretended to bring; whereupon He himself opened to them the Mysteries of the Gospel, dispen [...]ing the word to such as came to hear him; insomuch that at this day that People are All Christians by Profession.

The day before his Death I being with him, inquired of him concerning his hope; who after he had treated some time of the Mutability of an earthly Life; Said, I have hope in God, that when my Soul departeth out of this Body; God will send His Messengers, who shall Conduct it to Himself, to be with Jesus Christ; and then with great earnestness, pronounced these words; where that Everlasting Glory is! As for my reasons; (said he) I my self have had many wrongs of Enemies, of whom I have [...] Revenge nor retained evil in thought, word, nor deed; and I also expect the same from God; but [Page] (said he) I proceed no further, for [...] Mercifull: then I asked him of his [...] to Dy; he replyed: It is now [...] Nights since I was taken [...], and I have not yet asked of God, to live longer in the World. In this World are some benefits to be enjoyed; also many troubles to be indured; but with respect to the hope I have in God, I [...] willing to dy; here I am in pain, there I shall be freed from all pain, and injoy that Rest that never endeth. Then pointing to his Daughters, said, There be three of my Daughters (relating how they were disposed of) and you my Daughters, if you loose your Father, Mourn not for me, but Mourn for your selves, and for your Sins: Mourn not for me, for though you are unwilling to spare [...], and I might be helpfull to you if I should Live [...] in this World, yet to dy i [...] [...]etter for me.

Of [...] or Persons improving the Infernal Spirits to Effect their intended Malicious harms: I can inform of a Converted Sachim; who in his Publick Protestation, said as followeth. Viz. That he having often imployed his god, which appeared to him in form of a Snake, to Kill, Wound, and Lame such whom he intended mischief to, he imployed the said Snake to Fill, and that failing to [Page] Wound or Lame [...] the first Convert on Martha's Vineyard; all which proved ineffectual, [...] seriously considered, the said He [...] Af [...]ertion, that none of the Powaw's could [...], since his God, whom he now Served was the Great God, to whom their was subservient; he resolved to worship the true God, from which time during Seven years, the said Snake gave him great disturbance, but that he never after his Praying to God in Christ, ever imployed that said Snake in any thing, which about that time ceased to appear to him.

I can also inform, of an Indian Powaw, who although he was not accounted Religious, yet said, he was a Christian, who being questioned by some English of such matters reported of him, acknowdedged, that designing to Kill by Witcherast a certain Indian who accidentally lodged in the house with him and his Brother, while he went out to inchant an [...], his brother who before lay from, now contrary to his knowledge lay next to the fire, it being their then custom to ly bare-back't to the fire; be when he came in, nothing doubting but that it was his Enemy, directed the inchanted hair to the back of his supposed Enemy, which immediately [Page] entering his body, killed him; but in the morning it proved to be his brother. The thing was well known; and this Powaw [...] with great remorse and sorrow to acknowledge the same to such of our English who inquired of him, concerning that matter.

A Further Account, concerning the present State of Christianity among the INDIANS in other parts of New-England.

[Page]

Concerning the further progress of the Gospel among the Indians in America; the Reader may take this following Account, which is Extracted out of several Letters sent to the Reverend Increase [...], Praesilent of the Colledge at [...] in New-England.

Mr. [...] Treat Pasto of the Church in Eastha [...], in a Letter [...] date August 23. 1693. Writeth as [...]

[Page]

Reverend & Worthy Sir.

I being Advertised that it would [...] be unseasonable or unservicable at this Juncture, to give your self a true and impartial account, both of the number as also of the present State of our Indians, and Acceptation and Entertainment of the Gospel among them, and their professed Subjection thereunto: Wherefore Sir, you may be assured as followeth.

That there are Five Hundred and five Adult Persons of Indians, within the Limits of our Township, unto whom these many years past, I have from time to time imparted the Gospel of our LORD JESUS, in their own Language (and I truly hope not without Success) and yet I continue in the same Service, earnestly imploring, and not without hopes, expecting and waiting for a more plantiful down pow [...]ing of the Spirit from on high among them: and I verily doe not know of nor can I learn that there is so much as one of these Five hundred Indians, that do's obstinately absent from, but doe joyntly [...] and attend on the [Page] Preaching of the Word, and countenance the same, not only frequenting and attending seasons of Worship of a divine Sanction, but also all other occasional Opportunities, when the Gospel is dispensed to them; and when our Congregations Solemnize Publick Dayes of Prayer with Fasting or of Praises (I usually giving them Advertisment thereof) they readily comply therewith, in their respective Assemblies. They have four distinct Assemblies in four Villages belonging to our Township, in which four Assembles, they have four Teachers of their own choice, of the more Sober, well Affected and Understanding Persons among them, who do duly Preach to them, when I am not with them; these Indian Teachers repair to my house once a Week, to be further instructed (Pro modulo meo) in the concernments proper for their Service and Station.

There are in the four abovesaid Villages, four [...] masters (of the best accomplisht for that Service) who teach their Youth to Read and Write their own Language.

There are also Six Justices of the Peace (or Magistrates) in the four abovesaid Villages, who regulate their Civil Affairs, and Pu [...]ith [...] and Transgressors of the [Page] Civil Law; they have their stated Courts and other Inferiour Officers in a Subserviency to their Civil EUPOLITUESTHAI.

There are among them, many of a Serions, Sober, Civilized Conversation and Deportment, who are making Essays towards a further Progressive step of Obedience and Conformity to the Rules of the Gospel, Viz an Ecclesiastical Combination, having a great desire to be Baptized.

They are very Serviceable by their Labour to the English Vi [...]inity, and have all along since our Wars with their Nation, been very Friendly to the English, and forward to serve them in that quarrel. Their Deportment and Converse, and Garb, being more Manly and Laudable than any other Indians, that I have observed in the Province.

But Sir, I would not be tedious, onely Craving your Interest at the Throne of Grace for us, that we may be Serviceable to the Name and Kingdom of our LORD JESUS. So I Subscribe.

SIR,

Yours willingly, Samuel [...]reat.

Eastham, August, 23. 1693.

[Page]

Mr. James Noyce Pastor of the Church in Stonington, in a Letter dated the Fifteenth of March last, Writeth thus.

Reverend Sir.

YOurs I Received, and Rejoyce that God bath Stirred up any that doth take care and Contribute towards the advancing Christs Kingdom amongst the Poor Heathen; and do and did formerly believe, that where God sends Light, He intends Love; and where God gives little, He expects less; and therefore the Labours of the Reverend Mr. Eliot, Mr. Mayhew &c. have not leen lest, they have net Run in vain, but that many are gone to Heaven of their deceased bearers. And I should count it my Joy and Crown to win one Soul of them to Christ. And [...] in hope that some one or two of the [...], that were my Friends and lived [...] my Land, upon my endeavour have obtained [...] now dead, who dyed Praying. Renou [...]ed [...] the way of the Heathen Worship &c. [...] Servants [...] the Faith with many [...] are Raptized, and give good [...] to their Knowledge, Converse and [...] work upon them. I have [...] bound fast[Page]to me to be instructed to Read and Write, and in the way of Life, which hitherto gives great hopes, and no discouragement; he is about Thirteen Years of Age. And once I had the advantage to Astonish many of the Heathen, and of the chief of them, by Gods answering Prayers in the presence of many Heathen, by raising a very Sick Indian Lad (English also present) after the Lad was given over by Indians and English, and was Speechless; and several Powaw's had Powawed, and given that Sentence, that the Lad would Dy; but he is alive to this day: The Story is too large to write, but I believe God did Glorify Himself in the sight of the Heathen, according to Humble and Earnest Petitions, made in the presence of about Thirty Heathen: all seemed to be much Confounded and awakened. O [...] very W [...]tty and Wise Sachem there present told me, he would be a Christian, but he was afraid his heart would not be right, without which Profession would be in vain, and he was afraid Wine and Women would be his Ruine, he should not for bear, but he owned and almost all present, when I [...], Our God was the Great and true God, but they [...] Indians, and they did [...] know Him. Of these things and [...] English [...][Page]when their Powaw's had long Cryed for Rain and God answered by sending Rain the same day to the great Astonishment of the Heathen.

Yours to Serve, James [...]opce.

Stonington March, 15. 1693, 4.

Mr. Rowland Cotton, Minister at Sandwich, in a Letter of June 27. 1693. Writeth thus.

Reverend Sir,

I have Endeavoured to take an Exact Account of those Indians, Adult Persons, who do constantly attend upon the Dispensation of the Gospel, in the place that at present I am concerned for. And we do find that in Mashipau, Sanctuit, and Cotuit Villages bordering on each other, and all belonging to the same Assembly; There are no less than Two hundred and Fourteen, besides several Straglers, that have no settled Place; do repair thither. To carry on the work of the Lords Day, there is appointed one Simon Papm [...]nit: and at other times I shall diligently intend their good according to my Capacity.

Reverend Sir, I desire your Blessing on Your Servant, Rowland Cotton

Sandwich June, 27. 1693.

[Page] Mr.Thomas T [...]pper also has given an Account of One hundred & Eighty Indians, unto whom he do's dispense the word, concerning whom he ha's Charitable hopes that they do (and that with Zeal and Sincerity) Embrace the Gospel. There are moreover, in Plymouth Colony about Five Hundred Indians, amongst whom Mr. John Cotton (Pastor of the Church in Plymouth, and Son to the Famous Cotton of Boston) hath and doth Preach the Gospel. Likewise Mr.Peter Thatcher, Pastor of the Church in Milton, is a Faithful Labourer amongst the Indians at Punkepaog. So is Mr.Grindal Rawson, Pastor of the Church in Mendam, among the Indians in those Parts; and Mr.Bondet, who is Minister to the French Congregation at Oxford, in the Nipmug Country. The Indian Church at Natick (which was the first Indian Church in America) is since Blessed ELIOTS Death, much diminished and dwindled away. But Mr. Daniel Gookin, hath bestow'd his Pious Cares upon it.

Besides the Labours of the English in NewEngland, Mr. Dellius (a worthy Dutch Minister) at Albany has Learned the Language of the Indians in those parts; God has Graciously Smilled on his Endeavours, so as that Considerable Numbers of them are Converted to the Faith of Christ, and there is reason to hope that what [Page] is done, is but the First Fruits of a Great Hervest to follow. Take the Account which himself giveth, in a Letter bearing date the 16th of January last. His words are these.

Reverend Sir.

I have this to add to my former, that a Jesuit called Milet, whom the Oneydes took Prisoner about four years agoe, and who is now in that Castle a great man among them, uses all his Subtilty to frustrate my Labours, by making false Impressions upon the Indians concerning our Religion; yet God Almighty is Pleased to strenghen my Proselytes in that way, I teach them more and more; sometimes there happens difference and disputes between my Proselytes and his concerning the the Points of Religion, but ours alleadge they Confute the others. This I must say for them, that they take a great deal of Pains and are very Zealous to learn, and very Devote in there Practice; I am under favour of opinion, that the Jesuit [...], with the Cases of Conscience added thereto, writ by their own hands, which they learn the Indians, which is either in your or your Reverend Son, Mr. Cotton Mathers Possession▪ may be Serviceable, to convince our Proselytes and others [Page] French, that come here of there Pernicious Principles, and wish the same might be sent me. I had put Six or Seven Psalms in their Native Language upon our Notes, but were not perfected, now they are finished and the Ten Commandments also. The new Infant Church among the Heathen Increases, there being Seventeen last Communion day, the Thirty-first of December last, who took the Sacrament with us, and four others Baptized the same day. Thus God is sought of them that asked not for Him, and is found of them that sought Him not. I think that God has a great People of them yet; the Lord send a Blessing to those means that are used for the Enlargement of His Kingdom among them; and Bless you, and all that Labour in His Vineyard, which shall ever be the Prayers of him, who is,

Reverend SIR,

Your most Faithful and Obedient Servant, in our Lord Jesus, Godefridus Dellius.

Albany, January, 16. 1693, 4.

FINIS.

Information about this book

Title statement

A brief narrative of the success which the Gospel hath had, among the Indians, of Martha's-Vineyard (and the places adjacent) in New-England. With some remarkable curiosities, concerning the numbers, the customes, and the present circumstances of the Indians on that island. Further explaning [sic] and confirming the account given of those matters, by Mr. Cotton Mather in the Life of the renowned Mr. John Eliot. / By Matthew Mayhew. ; Whereto is added, an account concerning the present state of Christianity among the Indians, in other parts of New-England: expressed in the letters of several worthy persons, best acquainted therewithall.

Mayhew, Matthew, 1648-1710.

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Text Creation Partnership,

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2005-03.

ID [DLPS]

N00571

ID [TCP]

N00571

ID [STC]

Evans 701

ID [STC]

Wing M1436

ID [NOTIS]

APX3237

ID [IMAGE-SET]

701

ID [EVANS-CITATION]

99020005

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Early American Imprints, 1639-1800 ; no. 701.

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(Evans-TCP ; no. N00571)

Transcribed from: (Readex Archive of Americana ; Early American Imprints, series I ; image set 701)

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— A brief narrative of the success which the Gospel hath had, among the Indians, of Martha's-Vineyard (and the places adjacent) in New-England. With some remarkable curiosities, concerning the numbers, the customes, and the present circumstances of the Indians on that island. Further explaning [sic] and confirming the account given of those matters, by Mr. Cotton Mather in the Life of the renowned Mr. John Eliot. / By Matthew Mayhew. ; Whereto is added, an account concerning the present state of Christianity among the Indians, in other parts of New-England: expressed in the letters of several worthy persons, best acquainted therewithall., Mayhew, Matthew, 1648-1710..

Extent

55, [1] p.

Printed by Bartholomew Green, sold by Michael Perry, under the exchange,,. Boston in N.E. :: 1694..

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Editorial practices

EEBO-TCP is a partnership between the Universities of Michigan and Oxford and the publisher ProQuest to create accurately transcribed and encoded texts based on the image sets published by ProQuest via their Early English Books Online (EEBO) database (http://eebo.chadwyck.com). The general aim of EEBO-TCP is to encode one copy (usually the first edition) of every monographic English-language title published between 1473 and 1700 available in EEBO.

EEBO-TCP aimed to produce large quantities of textual data within the usual project restraints of time and funding, and therefore chose to create diplomatic transcriptions (as opposed to critical editions) with light-touch, mainly structural encoding based on the Text Encoding Initiative (http://www.tei-c.org).

The EEBO-TCP project was divided into two phases. The 25,363 texts created during Phase 1 of the project have been released into the public domain as of 1 January 2015. Anyone can now take and use these texts for their own purposes, but we respectfully request that due credit and attribution is given to their original source.

Users should be aware of the process of creating the TCP texts, and therefore of any assumptions that can be made about the data.

Text selection was based on the New Cambridge Bibliography of English Literature (NCBEL). If an author (or for an anonymous work, the title) appears in NCBEL, then their works are eligible for inclusion. Selection was intended to range over a wide variety of subject areas, to reflect the true nature of the print record of the period. In general, first editions of a works in English were prioritized, although there are a number of works in other languages, notably Latin and Welsh, included and sometimes a second or later edition of a work was chosen if there was a compelling reason to do so.

Image sets were sent to external keying companies for transcription and basic encoding. Quality assurance was then carried out by editorial teams in Oxford and Michigan. 5% (or 5 pages, whichever is the greater) of each text was proofread for accuracy and those which did not meet QA standards were returned to the keyers to be redone. After proofreading, the encoding was enhanced and/or corrected and characters marked as illegible were corrected where possible up to a limit of 100 instances per text. Any remaining illegibles were encoded as <gap>s. Understanding these processes should make clear that, while the overall quality of TCP data is very good, some errors will remain and some readable characters will be marked as illegible. Users should bear in mind that in all likelihood such instances will never have been looked at by a TCP editor.

The texts were encoded and linked to page images in accordance with level 4 of the TEI in Libraries guidelines.

Copies of the texts have been issued variously as SGML (TCP schema; ASCII text with mnemonic sdata character entities); displayable XML (TCP schema; characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or text strings within braces); or lossless XML (TEI P5, characters represented either as UTF-8 Unicode or TEI g elements).

Keying and markup guidelines are available at the Text Creation Partnership web site.