among you, as becometh saints; || and I will spare them as a man neither filthiness, nor foolish talk-spareth his own son that serveth ing, nor jesting, which are not him." convenient, but rather giving of thanks." But, if such be the precepts and examples recorded in holy Scrip "Let your conversation be al-ture, relative to ordering our conways with grace, seasoned with salt, that it may minister grace to the hearers." "If any man among you seemeth to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, that man's religion is vain." We have further the recorded examples of eminent persons in Scripture, relative to this part of Christian duty. Thus David declared: "I will take heed to my way, that I sin not with my tongue; I will keep my mouth with a bridle while the wicked is before me." And, knowing his own weakness to keep his resolution, he prays for Divine assistance: Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips." It is recorded as one of the characteristics of true wisdom, that "the opening of her mouth shall be right things" and the conduct of the wise and foolish is very strikingly contrasted, as follows: "The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright, but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness." "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." versation aright;" what shall we say of the conversation generally prevalent even among professed Christians? Is it such as Scripture enjoins? Is it such as God and an enlightened conscience can approve? And how much do we lose of the most sublime and sacred pleasure, by our negligence in attending to the duty of religious intercourse! If the consideration that "the Lord reigneth," should make the earth glad, and the multitude of the isles to rejoice; every thing which tends to present to our minds our gracious Heavenly Father, in the various dispensations of his providence, bringing light out of darkness," and "order out of confusion," making even the wrath of man to praise him, and causing all things to conspire to the accomplishment of his purposes of grace in the establishment of his kingdom in the hearts of men, should be considered interesting as a theme for the conversation of Christians. 66 The consideration of the miseries "Pleasant words are an honey-which sin has introduced into our comb, sweet to the soul, and health fallen world, the effects of which to the bones." its inhabitants so awfully experience, will habitually chastise the giddiness of intemperate mirth in the mind of the Christian, and induce a hallowed tenderness of feeling. This feeling, however, is nearly allied to joys of the purest and most elevating nature; for the Christian, while he mourns over the moral wretchedness around him, is enabled by faith to anticipate the ultimate issue of all things; and can perceive, amidst the darkest scenes, the harbingers of that spiritual renovation which shall ultimately visit our long degraded race. Often does he, in the secresy of his closet, experience a joy In Heb. xiii. 15. we are exhorted "to offer to God the fruit of our lips, giving thanks in his name." And there is a most interesting promise recorded in Mal. iii. 16, 17: "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another; and the Lord hearkened and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him, for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name: and they shall be mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day that I make up my jewels, which the world can neither give || spiritual nature to which we have nor take away often too, in the solitude of the scenery of nature, his heart is elevated with grateful emotions to that ever present and presiding Intelligence, who gives birth and movement to all things; and in the exercise of filial confidence, he looks up to Him as his reconciled Father and Friend. easy access, and for the enjoyment of which we have so many opportunities. In proportion as we acquire a relish for these, shall we disrelish those of an opposite nature; and it is only a thoroughly formed spiritual taste that can be an efficient safeguard against their ever recurring temptations. But why should pleasures so pure Among subjects well adapted to and delightful be confined to mo- afford interesting topics of converments of silent contemplation, when sation may be mentioned, the proGod has promised to bless with his ceedings of those philanthropic and presence those who meet together Christian institutions which are efin his name? Why should we so fecting so many important changes often employ the noble powers of in the civil, social, and moral conspeech and intellect, on objects and dition of our species, changes all events too trivial to be recorded in tending to increase the happiness an ephemeral page, when we have of mankind. Few things are so subjects of thought and intercourse well calculated to inspire, among worthy of a place in the records of the young especially, honourable immortality? Why, in our hours feelings, and to lead to praiseworthy of relaxation, should we conjoin and Christian conduct, as those with the melody of music, thoughts eminent examples of almost every and expressions opposed to those variety of excellence which the which form the theme of the heaven- annals of missionary labour have ly worshippers, and which we must exhibited. Those in whom the unlearn before we can join their perusal of Plutarch's Lives could company? Why should we not produce an unconquerable wish to more often, in social intercourse, serve their country even with their express the feelings of our hearts life, might have been led, with these in a song of grateful praise, to Him examples of a higher order of excelwho is the wellspring of our com-lence, to serve their God with equal forts the bond of our union-the|| zeal, though at the hazard of every foundation of our hopes? Have we thing which was endeared to them no mercies to record ? no arguments by earthly associations. to animate each other to the conflict with our spiritual enemies? A spirit of union among Christians is greatly strengthened by The mind is formed to seek en- their engaging in the social exercisjoyment, and this is not to be found es of devotion. They thus mutuin the listlessness of inactivity. ally draw nigh to Him "of whose Our blessed Lord, on all occasions, Spirit we have all received," and discovered his knowledge of human the communications of which we nature, by his unerring adaptation may hope at such hallowed moof his instructions to its constitu- ments more abundantly to enjoy ; tion; and thus the command, not communications through which our to set our affection on things on Saviour accomplishes that interestthe earth," is coupled with instruc-ing object of his intercessory prayer, tions and motives to place them on even that we may all be one," things above. And if we would dwelling and increasing in love. escape the frivolity, not to say scandal, generally prevalent in conversation, we must cultivate a taste for those sublimer joys of a No Christian can seriously review the seasons spent in convivial intercourse, in its general tenor, without regret, or can have enjoy 6th. When a taste for religious conversation is in a great measure to be formed, or the habit to be strengthened, let it be practised in the smaller and more select society of those friends who most relish it, by which means a capacity and in ed the blessedness of Christian || of nature and grace, and many imcommunion engrafted upon the de- portant lessons to be learned from lightful intercourse of domestic life, the daily occurrences of life, it is without being led to the conviction of importance to cultivate a habit how much superior are the latter of quickly perceiving, and with faenjoyments to the former; and yet cility communicating, these lessons how few traces of amendment in of heavenly wisdom. this respect can we discover? Believing, however, that with many there exists a latent desire for an improved state of social intercourse among Christians, I would beg leave to suggest the following hints, which appear to my mind calculated to conduce to its accomplishment.clination to introduce it more geneAs the arrangements of domestic intercourse depend more immediately upon the heads of families, upon them chiefly must rest the accomplishment of the desired reformation, and therefore to them more particularly are submitted the following suggestions. 1st. Habitually, and more especially, previously to the reception of guests, let prayer be offered to be offered to God for the presence of his Holy Spirit, to kindle in their hearts the flame of devotion, and to suggest and bring to their remembrance, thoughts calculated to cheer, plevate, and purify the mind.. 2d. It is desirable to read and treasure up something calculated to afford matter for interesting and improving remarks. 3d. Some topic might, on partieular occasions, be selected for investigation or discussion, in the general view of which those present might be expected to agree, and which their united contributions of thought might clear up and enrich. 4th. It might be made a specific subject for conversation, whether any new plan of benevolence could be devised, or any additional stimulus given to existing ones. 5th. As there are many interesting analogies between the kingdoms rally into society will be acquired. 7th. As fruitfulness in every species of moral excellence, must be derived from a vital union with our Redeemer, if we would shine in the beauty of holiness in the presence of our friends, we must frequently retire from the world to hold communion with God; and then, descending from this holy mount, we may hope in some degree to retain the heavenly impression in our intercourse with our fellow-creatures. 8th. For Christian friends uniting in the social circle, to sing a psalm or hymn, would have a tendency to collect the thoughts to a common centre-even that of infinite perfection, the well-spring of eternal joy; and unitedly to bow before the throne of God previously to separating, would tend to throw a hallowed sacredness around our joys, and to strengthen all the bonds of mutual affection. Trusting that these remarks have been written in the fear of God, and committing them to his blessing, it is the earnest desire of the writer that those who take a similar view of the subject would conjoin their exertions and prayers in promoting the common object. Y. S. FOREIGN MISSIONARY INTELLIGENCE. BURMAH. EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF REV. Ordered to Prison. It was in vain to look for respect to our religious character, in those who were destitute even of the common feelings of humanity. Mr. Hough and myself were accustomed to wear hats, and were therefore included in the royal order. One of the king's linguists was sent to call us: we expostulated, asked why we were called, seeing we were teachers of religion, and had never intermeddled with political affairs, &c. &c. He said it was their custom in similar cases to examine all foreigners. We were called only for the sake of formality; no evil was intended against us, nor should we be detained more than two or three hours. But we had forebodings of a severer fate; we parted with our families, under the apprehension of meeting them no more in this world. Ineffectual pleas of Mr. Hough. Mr. H. spoke to the Tykeso concerning himself and me, alleging that we were Americans, and teachers of religion, and that we had done nothing worthy of bonds. was making for the expected attack. The guns were drawn to the battery, muskets collected and examined, together with spears, large knives, ammunition, &c. which were piled together around the spot where we lay. In the course of the evening, we heard the Burmans had seized an unfortunate European, who had been sent from the general with messages to the governor of Rangoon. We could not learn his fate, but he was in all prob ability sent to Ava. Severe treatment. At length a Burman came in, who after casting a scowling glance towards us, asked who we were? "The American teachers," answered a bystander. "Put them with the other prisoners," returned he; which was no sooner said than done. Still, however, we were not put in irons, and therefore yet cherished the fond hope of release. But our prospects were con stantly becoming darker. Our legs were bound together with ropes, and eight or ten Burmans, armed with spears, battleaxes, &c. were placed over us as a guard. An hour or two afterwards, the blacksmith came in a second time, bringing a rough, heavy chain. It consisted of three links, each about four inches in length, He said it was not in his power to re- and pounded together so close as to comlease us, though he was well aware of the pletely prevent it from bending any more truth of Mr. H.'s assertions; but promised than a straight bar of iron. The parts to represent us to the Yawhoon, on whose designed to go round the ankles were bars will depended life and death. In the of iron about two thirds of an inch thick, mean time, one of the sons of Vulcan en- partially rounded, and bent together so as tered the prison walls, loaded with chains, || just to admit the ankle. This was dehammers, &c. His appearance seemed signed for Mr. H. and myself. He was to foretel our approaching fate. We saw first seated, his leg laid upon a block, the our companions in affliction led forward || ring placed upon the ankle, and then one after another to the anvil, and from || pounded down close with heavy blows. thence to the door of an inner apartment, where they were thrust into close confinement. We were allowed to remain unmolested, until the pleasure of the Yawhoon concerning us should be more fully expressed. All around us was hurry and confusion, and every possible preparationed, from which we naturally inferred an The other ring was put upon my ankle in the same manner. Our situation af forded no convenience for lying down; and of course allowed us no sleep, or even rest. In the course of the night, the keys of our rooms, trunks, &c. were demand show with how much dexterity and pleasure they would execute their fatal orders. Upon the place which they intended for the scene of butchery, a large quantity of sand was spread to receive the blood. Among the prisoners reigned the gloom and silence of death-the vast ocean of eternity seemed but a step before us. Mr. H. and myself threw ourselves down upon a mattress, expecting never to rise again, and calmly waited to hear the first gun that should be fired upon the town, as the signal for our certain death.-In the mean time, an account of our real situation, intention to pillage our houses. They || guards immediately began sharpening also enquired very particularly, if we had their instruments of death with bricks, any muskets or spears, and how many? || and brandishing them about our heads, to We did not fear the loss of property, but trembled at the idea of Mrs. W. and II. being exposed to the brutal insults and cruelties of unprincipled robbers. Mrs. W. and H. like ourselves, were unable to get any rest, though they were not particularly molested by the Burmans. Moungshwa-ba, one of the native Christians, spent the night with them, and very much encouraged them by his prayers and pious conversation. None of the other Burman Christians staid by them. Approach and attack of the British fleet. The fleet very early in the morning had got under weigh, and was rapidly advanc-which we had used various means to con ing upon the town. About three or four thousand armed Burmans were collected together in front of the town, along the shore, to repel any attack which might be made by the approaching enemy. The women and children, as if foreseeing the events of the day, left the town, and fled to the jungles, carrying with them as large a portion of their little property as they were able. When it was announced that the fleet was within a few miles of the town, two other Englishmen chained together, with a Greek and an Armenian chained in the same manner, were added to our miserable number. Our guard was considerably strengthened, and enjoined strictly to keep us close all communication with our servants, and things without, was cut off. One faithful old servant belonging to Captain Tench, seized an opportunity, when our door was partly opened, of slipping into the room unperceived. Seeing the situation of his mas-ing so, fearing, if the Burmans should find ter, and of us all, he wept like a child; and not only wept, but taking a large turban from his head, and tearing it into long strips, bound them round our ancles, to prevent our chains from galling; which we afterwards found of essential service to us. Shortly after, orders from the Yawhoon were communicated to our guard, through the grates of the prison, viz. that the instant the shipping should open a fire upon the town, they were to massacre all the prisoners without hesitation. This blasted all our hopes. The MAY, 1825. ceal, reached the ears of Mrs. W. and H, Their feelings can be better conceived than expressed. Who can tell with what agony of soul they listened to hear the first gun, the messenger which would re late a tale, more sad and awful than death itself could relate.-At length the fleet arrived, and the attack commenced. The first ball thrown into the town came with a tremendous noise, directly over our heads. Our guards, filled with consternation and amazement, seemingly unable to execute their murderous orders, slunk || away into one corner of the prison, where they remained perfectly quiet until a broadside from the Liffey, which made the prison shake and tremble to its very foundations, so effectually frightened them, that, like children, they cried out through fear, and openly declared their intention of breaking open the door. We used every argument to prevent their do us deserted by the guard, they might be induced to despatch us at once, to prevent our making an escape. But they felt the force of no arguments, saying, "The building will certainly be down upon us: we must go." They soon found means to break open the door: which being done, they all went out, but took the precaution to secure the door again, by fastening it with rattans upon the outside.-We were now left alone, About this time the firing ceased upon both sides; and we began to cherish the fond hope of 19 |