Journal of Brother J. H. Cheeseman
1849, Dec. 17,-Embarked on board sehr. J. R. McGill for
Monrovia.
1 8th, Sabbath. - After a pleasant passage of twelve hours or
more, arrived safely at Monrovia. Soon after landing, the sound of
the church-going bell notified me that the hour for worship had
arrived. I obeyed the summons, and had the pleasure of listening
to a very spirited address by Rev. R. R. Gurley, from Numb.
XXIV: 5-6, “How goodly are thy tents,
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Jacob.” Congregation
large and attentive. After services had quite an interesting
interview with the brethren; found the church in a state of harmony
and peace. Afternoon, 3 o’clock, had the pleasure of dispensing
the word of life, where first I attempted to preach; but how few of
the members who then heard me were in the congregation. And
where are they? Gone to swell the number of the dead. How
awful the thought; “time is short!” Preached this afternoon from
Isaiah xl: 9, “O Zion, that bringest glad tidings,” &c.
19 - Today attended a town meeting of the citizens, held
for the puipose of receiving the report of the committee appointed
to draw up a reply to the questions propounded by the United
States government through their special agent, R. R. G. The
committee’s report being received, the chairman of the meeting
handed the replies to the Rev. gentleman, (R. R. G.,) who
immediately arose from his seat and delivered a very able address,
which was listened to with more than ordinary attention, coming,
as it did, from one known as the long-tried and indefatigable friend
of African colonization.
21 - Visited New Virginia to inspect the school taught by
bro. W. A. Johnson, but was disappointed, in consequence of the
absence of the teacher. Spent an hour very pleasantly with some of
the brethren; learned that the church was doing as well as could be
expected, without a pastor.
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that the Lord would raise up or send
to this church a shepherd who will care for the flock.
Returned to Monrovia. Spent the evening at the bedside of
one who for many years had been a member of the church. She
was evidently sinking fast, but her mind was clear, and she
conversed much about the joys she expected soon to realize in the
kingdom of her Father. I found it better to go to the house of
mourning, than to the house of feasting.
